Edgewater council approves utility, recycling and fee increases after heated public hearing

The City of Edgewater on Aug. 5 approved Resolution 2024‑R‑12, which updates the city'wide schedule of fines, fees and utility rates and becomes effective Oct. 7, 2024.

During a three‑hour public hearing residents pressed the council for specifics on the increases and questioned whether the city had explored alternatives. Bridget (staff) told the council that recycling charges will rise from $5.73 to $8 per month — a 39.6% increase — and that water and sewer are recommended to increase by 5% each, with solid waste and stormwater rising 8% each.

Rate consultant Brian Mance said the adjustments respond to existing and near‑term infrastructure needs. He warned that "we have a lot of challenges ahead" and cited staffing shortfalls and capital projects that require proactive planning. The consultant also noted that the wastewater treatment plant expansion could be a very large, multi‑million‑dollar project that will need sustained funding.

Councilmembers Bennington, Dalbo and Powers voted to approve the resolution; Mayor DePue and Councilwoman Gillis voted no. The council recorded the roll call and approved the resolution by the required majority.

Supporters said the increase is intended to avoid larger, sudden hikes later and to keep the utility enterprise funds solvent. Several residents said they felt blindsided by the magnitude of some line‑item increases and asked for clearer, itemized comparisons to neighboring cities.

The council directed staff to provide follow‑up information and to pursue procurement or contract options (including bids for solid waste services) that could mitigate future rate pressure.