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Council flags proposed state water/sewer fee as potential burden for small cities
Summary
Council discussed a state-level proposal that would require water/sewer charges to equal about 3% of median household income and raised concerns that the measure could constrain local funding, disqualify cities from state-administered funds, and shift costs to small municipalities.
Council members spent significant time discussing a state-level proposal referenced in a study by a bank and in league communications that would set target water/sewer charges near 3% of median income. The mayor and council members said the bill could effectively require new local fees or taxes and might make cities ineligible for certain state-administered funds if they do not comply.
One council member summarized the fiscal effect for Willard: "Doing the math, that'll be $2,700 a resident in Willard City," and warned that if revenue were required to be remitted to the state or otherwise not retained locally, the city could lose funding needed for its own infrastructure projects. Council members noted the bill's language is unclear on whether funds would be retained locally or turned over to a state pool and asked colleagues to monitor committee scheduling at the State Capitol. Staff and council agreed to track the bill and, if necessary, coordinate testimony or outreach through the League of Cities.
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