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Council approves first reading of utilities ordinance amendment after debate on contract renewal language
Summary
Council passed first reading of Ordinance 2026‑O3, which updates the utilities ordinance; discussion centered on whether contract renewals for service outside town limits would trigger a referendum and staff were directed to refine the language for second reading.
Council conducted a first reading of Ordinance 2026‑O3 to amend the utilities ordinance. Discussion focused on section language that governs provision of water and sewer to customers outside the town limits and whether the wording could be read to require a referendum when existing contracts expire and are renewed. Council members expressed concern that routine contract renewals should not unintentionally trigger a referendum process.
Town Administrator Joe and counsel recommended clarifying language so that extensions of existing agreements could be approved by the utility commission and town council without automatically invoking the full economic study/public hearing/referendum sequence intended only for new service expansions. Council passed the ordinance on first reading and instructed staff and the utility attorney to draft clarified language for second reading.
