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Water board approves 3% rate increase for Fiscal Year 2027 to fund meters and infrastructure
Summary
The Town of Manchester Board of Water Commissioners voted unanimously to raise water rates 3% for FY2027, citing an estimated $900,000 meter purchase and multi-million-dollar infrastructure needs including Center Hill upgrades and a potential alternate well site.
The Town of Manchester Board of Water Commissioners approved a 3% increase in water rates for Fiscal Year 2027 during its May 20, 2026 meeting. Commissioner Doug Kilburn moved the increase, Mark LaChac seconded, and the motion carried unanimously, 3-0.
Board members cited several anticipated capital needs as the rationale for the increase: a potential water meter purchase with an estimated cost of up to $900,000, work at Center Hill that could cost as much as $2,000,000, and preliminary planning for an alternate well location that could also cost up to $2,000,000. Chair Ivan Beattie and staff said the adjustments are intended to maintain the water system and spread costs across current users rather than defer critical work.
The board did not adopt a detailed financing plan during the meeting; Town Manager Scott Murphy was recorded as planning to meet with Mike DeCubellis to review town finances and funding options for the anticipated meter purchase. The increase takes effect for Fiscal Year 2027.
