Discussions on whether to adjust wastewater rates begin today at the El Centro City Council meeting.
After a 2005 rate study, wastewater rates were increased on an indexed basis each July from 2006 to 2009, according to a report to the council. Since then rates have been unchanged.
But in December 2010 the council authorized another wastewater rate study. The purpose of the study was to analyze the existing rate structures and make recommendations on the “cash needs” perspective, the same report reads. A 6.2 percent rate increase is now being recommended to take place each July from 2012 to 2016.
This would mean single-family residential rates could go from the $44.35 to $59.91 in 2016, according to the report. The proposed rates will increase wastewater revenue by an estimated $550,000 per year.
Discussion on water rate increases will be discussed as well.
The proposed increase of 4.6 percent would be done on a yearly basis in a similar incremental fashion as the wastewater rates. Most residences’ monthly service charge could climb from the $3.01 to $3.77 in 2016, according to the report, and this would generate about $450,000 in increased revenue.
No action will be taken on either item, said Randy Hines, wastewater plant supervisor, adding the council will be asked to set a public hearing on June 19 to allow residents to comment on the proposed increases.
Bus Transfer Station bidding
The city’s Regional Bus Transfer Station plans and specifications are ready, and the council may send the project out to bid through its consent agenda.
The station will be built at Seventh and State streets with an estimated cost of $3.2 million, according to a report. Specifications of the project include a remote police substation, restrooms, bike racks and art wall installations.
Preliminary budget workshop
The city will also continue preliminary budget hearings. Tonight the council will hear about so-called special revenue funds, capital projects funds and enterprise funds.
More than two weeks ago the 2012-2013 preliminary general fund budget presented to the council was balanced and showed no cuts. This is the first time in the past two years that no cuts have been applied to the general fund budget.
If you go
What El Centro City Council meeting
When 6 p.m. today
Where 385 S. First St., El Centro Adult Center
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