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Council approves utilities code revisions on first reading amid objections to higher tap and community investment fees
Summary
Council read and approved Ordinance 13 (amending Title 25 utilities) on first reading; one councilor voted no, arguing that increases to electric community investment and water tap fees are punitive and could discourage electrification.
Council considered Ordinance 13, which amends Title 25 (electricity, water service, utility connections, rates and water‑efficient landscaping standards). Staff explained the code changes proposed in chapters 25.04, 25.08, 25.12, 25.16 and 25.30. During discussion, Councilor Bill objected to sizable increases proposed for electric community investment and water tap fees, calling them "punitive" and warning they could disincentivize electrification.
Mayor Richards acknowledged the concern but emphasized infrastructure needs, noting in discussion that the water plant requires significant rebuilding. The motion to approve the ordinance on first reading passed on a roll call with Councilor Guth recorded as voting no and the other members voting yes. Council members said they would continue to evaluate fee structure impacts before final adoption.
The changes will return for second reading and remain subject to public hearings; councilors asked staff to provide more analysis of tap fees' local development impacts and electrification goals before final action.
