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Alexandria council holds first readings of consolidated water rules and proposed rate changes amid resident water-quality complaints
Summary
Councilors conducted first readings of a consolidated Division of Water rules ordinance and a water-rate ordinance, discussed posting billing manuals online and addressed resident reports of white residue and brown water while staff pursue hydrant flushing to resolve issues.
Councilors held first readings on June 16 of an ordinance that consolidates previously approved water fees into a single Division of Water rules document and of a separate ordinance proposing an increase in water rates. Administrator Kendra Borror told the council the draft compiles fees "previously approved from 3 other ordinances" into one document for ease of reference.
The council also held a first reading of a resolution approving a Utility Billing Procedures Manual and a Water Construction Specifications Manual. Fiscal Officer Carol Gissinger asked whether the manuals would be posted online; Borror said they would be posted on the village website.
Public Service members reported several resident complaints about water appearance. Councilwoman Cari Meng said staff advised residents to run faucets for an extended period to flush lines and that nearby hydrant-flushing activity by a neighboring system may be contributing to brown water on Granville and Main streets. The 2025 Division of Water Quality Report has been posted and will be linked on water bills beginning July 1, the council was told.
Councilors did not take votes on the ordinances or rate changes during the meeting; the items were at first reading and will return for subsequent readings before any adoption. The council also noted that previously unread meters were updated in the billing system.
Next steps: the water-rate and rules ordinances will return for additional readings; staff will continue investigating water-quality complaints and coordinate hydrant flushing as needed.
