Knox Council to Reorganize, Consider Utility Rate Increases

City_of_Knox_LogoThe Knox City Council will start the new year with some unfinished business when they meet this evening. They will consider ordinances to raise water and sewer rates on second reading. They’re based on a rate study conducted for the city by accounting firm Umbaugh and Associates. It took into account infrastructure needs for maintaining both services at appropriate levels.

If approved, changes in water rates will take effect immediately, while sewer rate increases will be phased in over the next two years. According to a minimum bill comparison for total water and sewer rates, consumers can expect to see a nearly $13 increase in 2016. Prices would increase another $7 the year after.

Clerk-Treasurer Jeff Houston will also discuss reductions to the 2016 budget.

Tonight is Mayor Dennis Estok’s first meeting of his current term. The advance agenda includes mayoral appointments as well as appointments by the council and election of a president pro temp.

Estok will also discuss funding sources for the splash pad he wants to add at Wythogan Park. The council meeting starts at 7 p.m. at city hall.