Ogdensburg council discusses water‑rate hikes, tank cleaning and internet upgrades to support operations

Councilman William Nardini (identified in the minutes by surname) told the Mayor and Council on Sept. 27 that aging water infrastructure and limited grant availability justify a modest rate increase to bolster the water fund and pay for potential repairs.

Nardini circulated a spreadsheet showing sample rate increases of $0.50, $0.40, $0.30 and $0.20 and said he recommended the highest option. "The increase would help fuel the fund balance on the water side," he said, citing old pipes and the prospect of loans or major repairs. He said the goal would be to make the change effective Jan. 1 so the adjusted rates affect the next billing cycle.

CFO Mike Marceau noted timing constraints for billing: "Whatever we bill in February is going to be based on the reading from the previous quarter," and urged quick action so the change affects the next billing. Borough Attorney Robert McBriar said changes to rates are likely to require ordinance action (introduction, second reading and a public hearing) and offered to prepare the required language for the next meeting.

Councilman Nardini also reported separate public‑works concerns: pipes on swim docks were bent during the last hurricane and DPW could not straighten them; he said he would solicit quotes for repairs. He said water‑tank cleaning had been on pause with a temporary operator but will be scheduled during a school break now that a permanent operator is in place.

Nardini raised technical limits in borough‑hall internet that slow uploads of body‑camera footage and large files, describing the current service as "10mg download and 1mg upload" and asking the council to consider options and costs. He said he would work with 'Kim' to explore upgrades.

The council directed the borough attorney to prepare ordinance language if there is consensus to pursue a $0.50 increase; no formal vote on rates occurred at the meeting.