Maybrook trustees approve $0.25 water-rate increase after audit shows $104,634 shortfall

The Village of Maybrook Board of Trustees on June 15 approved a $0.25 per-thousand-gallon increase in water rates following a public hearing and discussion of an independent audit that revealed a $104,634 revenue deficit in the water fund. Mayor Dennis Leahy framed the change as cautious and gradual: “The Village of Maybrook's recent water rate adjustment is a direct response to findings identified in our most recent independent audit, which revealed a water fund revenue deficit of $104,634.”

The board described the increase as intended to cover part of the shortfall while minimizing immediate impacts on residents and businesses. At the new rate, a typical residential customer using 25,000 gallons would see the per-quarter water charge rise from about $106.25 to $112.50 — an increase of roughly $6.25 per quarter, or $25 per year. The board estimated the $0.25 bump would generate approximately $16,000 in additional annual revenue.

Board members opened the hearing to public questions about timing, how outside users are billed and whether the general fund can cover water expenses. Attorney Liz Cassidy explained the statutory constraint on interfund transfers: under state law, “sewer funds, water funds, and your general operating budget are treated separately,” and shifting money between them is tightly restricted and typically requires a formal loan arrangement. Engineer Sean Hoffman also answered technical questions about sewer capacity and said the village’s treatment plant currently has adequate capacity for anticipated projects.

After public comment and follow-up questions, the Board closed the hearing and voted 4–0 to adopt the increase (residential rate: $4.25 → $4.50 per 1,000 gallons; business and outside-village rates adjusted proportionally). The board said it will continue monitoring the water fund and revisit rates as needed during future budget cycles.