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MRWA finds Three Oaks sewer finances stable; alternatives to tiered rates discussed
Summary
MRWA told the committee that the village's sewer system is financially stable with adequate reserves and no immediate capital needs; the committee discussed removing tiered rates and moving to a uniform usage-and-meter-size system but took no action.
During the April 10, 2026 special session, Michigan Rural Water Association consultant Joe VanDommelen reviewed the Village's sewer rate structure, describing a base-rate plus tiered usage charges intended to discourage high usage. VanDommelen said the sewer system's financial condition was stable and reserves were sufficient, and he noted there were no significant immediate capital improvement needs.
The committee discussed alternatives, including eliminating the tiered system and adopting a more uniform rate structure based on usage and meter size, which could bill users more consistently but would raise charges for customers who currently benefit from the tiered allowances. Members did not approve any changes and asked staff and MRWA to include sewer-structure scenarios in follow-up materials.
