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Howard Board Approves Stormwater, Sewer Rate Increases, $8M Borrowing and Sidewalk Relocation
Summary
On April 13 the Village Board approved Resolution 2026-11 to increase stormwater rates (7–2), Ordinance 2026-4 increasing sanitary sewer rates (8–1), Resolution 2026-12 authorizing up to $8.0 million in general obligation promissory notes (8–1), and Resolution 2026-13 for a grant-funded sidewalk relocation (unanimous).
The Village of Howard Board approved a package of utility rate changes, borrowing authorization, and a grant-funded sidewalk relocation on April 13.
Stormwater: Director Chris Haltom reviewed the stormwater utility's finances and recommended a rate increase tied to equivalent runoff units (ERUs). Trustee Ray Suennen moved to approve Resolution 2026-11; Trustee John Muraski seconded. The motion carried 7–2 (No: Craig McAllister, Cathy Hughes). Haltom said the increase would take effect with billings prepared in May 2026 and that recent revenue had relied heavily on interest income that is expected to decline.
Sanitary sewer: Haltom said the proposed sewer rate increase primarily responds to higher charges from the regional wastewater treatment provider and ongoing operating deficits. Staff noted unusually high-strength wastewater is raising treatment costs and a consultant has been engaged to review the system and identify sources. Trustee Ray Suennen moved to approve Ordinance 2026-4; Trustee Adam Lemorande seconded. The motion carried 8–1 (No: Cathy Hughes). The increase applies to billings prepared after May 1, 2026.
Borrowing: The board approved Resolution 2026-12 establishing parameters to sell general obligation promissory notes not to exceed $8,000,000. Director Haltom explained the funds would be allocated across multiple capital projects, including utilities, the Fire Station No. 2 addition, and Tax Increment District improvements; some costs would be covered by utilities or TID funds while others would affect the tax levy. Trustee Adam Lemorande moved; Trustee Cathy Hughes seconded. The motion carried 8–1 (No: Craig McAllister).
Sidewalk relocation: Director of Public Works Geoff Farr said the N. Taylor Street sidewalk project is predominantly grant funded and would construct sidewalk on the west side of the road with limited additional right-of-way acquisition anticipated. Trustee Cathy Hughes moved to approve Resolution 2026-13; Trustee Ray Suennen seconded. The motion carried unanimously. The project is anticipated to move forward in 2027.
Consent and other items: The board unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included municipal invoices totaling $743,578.18 (checks #86910–87019), operator and liquor-license renewals, and Change Order #5 to Dave Tenor Corporation reducing the Lineville / Brookfield sanitary sewer and watermain contract by $118,209.24. The board received a quarterly financial report for the period ending March 31, 2026; no action was taken.
Next steps: The stormwater and sewer rate increases will be reflected in May billings; staff will continue the consultant-led review of sewer strength issues and finalize borrowing allocations as projects move toward implementation.
