Anita Goodan
The Culver Town Council will be holding a public hearing soon to take comments on a proposal to increase the town’s water rates.
The council members received studies from Baker Tilly officials and previously held a work session to go over the studies. The rates have not been increased in 10 years and it was explained that with upcoming capital improvements needed and the cost of replacing 180 lead water lines the time is now to increase the rates.
It was also noted that the rates were not increased in 2020 when proposed so there would be no additional burden on costs to residents during the pandemic. There was another opportunity to adjust rates, but the decision was made to not raise rates at that time.
As an example, Clerk-Treasurer Karen Heim said a consumer using 1,000 gallons will experience a total utility bill of $90.22 if the council moves forward with the recommendation by Baker Tilly. The total utility bill includes the cost of water, sewer, waste collection, sales tax, storm water, and fire protection.
Town Council President Bill Cleavenger stated that if The Dunes project had not come to fruition, the proposed bill would be even steeper.
It was mentioned during the last Culver Town Council meeting that sewer rate adjustments are not needed at this time.
Councilwoman Ginny Munroe made a motion to authorize the scheduling of a public hearing on the matter which will be determined by Baker Tilly and will be advertised when set. The council voted unanimously to approve the motion.
