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Westfir committee weighs water, sewer rate increases and small-system grants for equipment
Summary
Committee reviewed proposed 7.4% water and 6.8% sewer rate increases and discussed qualifying for Oregon Health Authority and DEQ funding including forgivable loans for small systems ($2,000–$20,000) with an Aug. 15 application deadline.
Budget staff told the committee the proposed budget includes a 7.4% increase in consumer water rates and a 6.8% increase in sewer-related rates to help cover rising labor costs, deferred maintenance and aging facilities. "The budget reflects a 7.4% increase in consumer water rates and a 6.8% increase in consumer rates," the budget officer said when summarizing fund pressures.
Staff highlighted the Drinking Water Small System Equipment Assistance program from the Oregon Health Authority, which provides forgivable loans of $2,000 to $20,000 per project and has an application deadline of Aug. 15. Members discussed whether an engineer’s help would be needed to complete grant applications and noted that grant programs often require a prior facilities plan.
