Title
Discussion on proposed increases to Chapter 51, Water and Sewer Rates and Changes, of the Code of Ordinances related to water and sewer rates for Fiscal Year (FY) 2021.
Staff Summary
• Last year, the Committee and the County Board approved an Ordinance amending water and sewer related rates for certain Lake County systems based on the findings of a multi-year rate study.
• Although the ordinance included language that future rates established by study shall be automatically increased according to the recommended percentages, proposed rate increases are subject to review as part of the annual update of the rate ordinance.
• The proposed FY 2021 increases for retail water, as well as retail and wholesale sewer rates, are comprised of the recommended increase plus Consumer Price Index (CPI), which is currently 2.3 percent.
• The proposed water connection fees will continue to be phased-in through FY 2022 to reach the recommended levels.
• Sewer Connection increases are based on the services provided and facilities used by each region and will continue to be phased-in through FY 2022 to reach the recommended levels.
• Staff is requesting feedback on proposed rate increases in order to proceed with preparation of the FY 2021 budget as directed.
• Rate increases would take effect on December 1, 2020. No Committee or Board action is required at this time.