Nutter Fort council tables first reading of 12.77% water-rate increase; work session planned

Accountant Zach Dobbins told the Town of Nutter Fort council that a proposed ordinance would raise water rates by about 12.77%, and that roughly two-thirds of that change results from higher resale charges imposed by the Clarksburg Water Board. "The water rate increase for Nutter Fort is approximately 12.77% and two-thirds of the increase is due to Clarksburg raising their resale rate," Dobbins said during the first-reading discussion.

Dobbins outlined household impacts: a 2,000-gallon monthly bill would rise by $4.06 and a 3,000-gallon bill by $5.95; he also said the current Clarksburg resale rate is increasing from $3.88 to $4.00. He warned that failing to raise local rates could jeopardize the town's ability to meet debt-service obligations on existing bonds and, in the worst case, could trigger actions by bondholders or receivership.

Resident Dennis Dutchess had raised concerns during public comment that the Clarksburg Water Board was increasing rates while receiving $19 million; the council said it would send a representative to the Clarksburg board meeting on Nov. 12, 2025 to gather more information. After discussion, Councilor Shawn Spurlock moved to table the first reading and schedule a follow-up work session; Councilor Charlene Louk seconded and the motion passed unanimously.