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Bristow council accepts 2023–24 audit as auditors recommend 20–25% water, sewer rate increase
Summary
Auditors presented the 2023–24 fiscal audit and recommended raising water and sewer rates 20–25% and reducing transfers from the Municipal Authority fund; council accepted the audit with one abstention and said a separate rate study is pending.
The Bristow City Council voted Aug. 4 to accept the city’s 2023–24 fiscal audit after a presentation by a representative of auditing firm Ralph Osborn.
Sara, from the Ralph Osborn office, told the council that “based on the numbers from the audit, they make a recommendation to increase the Water & Sewer rates 20-25% and doing less transfers out of the Municipal Authority fund.” Councilmember Kevin Deshazo pressed auditors on operating shortfalls and Sara confirmed the figures show the city is spending more than it is taking in.
Councilmember Judd Johns noted the audit reflects years past and said recent internal changes to the Manual of Fees may affect revenues. City Attorney Beth Anne Childs told the council that P.E.C. is conducting a separate water-rate study that should provide updated rate scenarios for council consideration.
Councilmember Jeff Roberts moved to accept the audit; Frank Groom seconded. The motion passed by roll call with Councilmember Randy Witty recorded as abstaining.
What happens next: the audit acceptance does not itself raise rates. The council has an outside study underway (P.E.C.) to model rate adjustments; any change to utility rates would require a subsequent council action following required notices and findings.
