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Council approves higher water fees to build reserves for repairs
Summary
The council approved a proposed water fee schedule that raises the basic monthly fee from $26 to $30 and increases higher-tier rates so the utility can fund major repairs (the Elliott Branch repair was estimated at about $70,000); changes will be posted and mailed with bills, and take effect Dec. 1 if notices go out in October.
The Hays City Council voted unanimously to adopt a revised water fee schedule intended to build reserves for major repairs.
Staff explained the proposed schedule compares the city's rates to neighboring Mountain City and noted Hays' water rates had lagged. "The basic fee goes from 26 to $30," the presenter said, and higher tiers were adjusted so the utility can accumulate savings for projects such as a projected $70,000 repair at Elliott Branch. The council discussed percentages and public notice; staff said PGMS would send notices with the next water bills and that the fees would be effective Dec. 1 and reflected on the end-of-December bill.
Council members asked about the percentage increase and outreach. One member said the increase was roughly 10 percent. Mayor Harvey Davis noted notices would be posted on the website and included in billing; the council approved the schedule and directed staff to proceed with customer notice and implementation steps.
