Sewer rate increase sought

— In order to meet federally mandated standards and keep up with demands put on the sewer treatment plant created by the increased population, a sewer rate increase is necessary, according to city officials.

The City Council approved increasing the rates contingent on meeting all requirements of the law, and set a public hearing for 6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 18, prior to the next regulary-scheduled City Council meeting.

“We were on a decreasing block, but now we’re going to a fixed rate,” Ken Hayes, Water/Wastewater Department superintendent, said, adding that the increase does not affect the water rates.

Council members heard the first reading of the ordinance to raise the rates. The second reading will be at the Jan. 18 Council meeting. In order to be passed, an ordinance must be read three times before it is voted upon for approval or denial.

In other business, the Council:

◊Approved the amended budget for 2010;

◊Approved a 3-percent cost of living increase for all city employees;

◊Appointed Howard Slinkard as city attorney and Rick Hardwicke as city prosecutor; and

◊Approved an ordinance establishing June as the date when the mayor’s salary would be set in an election year determining that it would be prior to the filing date for the seat.

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Public hearing scheduled

A public meeting will be held at 6 p.m.Tuesday, Jan.

18, at Pea Ridge City Hall, to consider raising sewer rates in Pea Ridge.

In order to properly maintain the sewer system and provide for proper repair, replacement and operation of the system, and to insure sufficient funds to service revenue bonds, it has become necessary to adjust current sewer rates. Before sewer rates can be adjusted the city is required to holdpublic meeting in order to let all parties involved have an opportunity to be heard concerning the proposed increase.

New rate structure: for the first 1,000 gallons of water consumption per month, or portion thereof $10.50(minimum). For water consumption in excess of 1,000 gallons per month, the rate shall progressively increase by the sum of $3.50 per 1,000 gallons, or portion thereof.

Example: 2000 gallons - $14; 3,000 gallons - $17.50;

4,000 gallons - $21.00, etc.

New non-residential rate structure: for the first 1,000 gallons of water consumption per month, or portion thereof $14 (minimum). For water consumption in excess of 1,000 gallons per month, the rate shall progressively increase by the sum of $4.20per 1,000 gallons, or portion thereof. Example: 2,000 gallons - $18.20; 3,000 gallons -$22.40.; 4,000 gallons -$26.60, etc.

News, Pages 1 on 01/05/2011