The Plymouth City Council members are expected to discuss water and sewer rate increases when they meet tonight at 6:30 p.m.
A public hearing is set to gather public comment on the matter.
During a special meeting held Monday, Oct. 30, the city council learned that with Bay Valley Foods and Del Monte closing at the end of year water and wastewater treatment revenue losses are imminent. To help bridge the gap, an ordinance outlining a one-time raise in the water rate of 12 percent to begin Jan. 1, 2018, was proposed. In addition, an ordinance detailing a three-phase wastewater rate increase was proposed. It would allow for a 10 percent increase in wastewater rates beginning Jan. 1, 2018, with another 10 percent increase on Sept. 2, 2018, and a third 10 percent increase in March of 2019.
According to Utility Superintendent Donnie Davidson, the average customer using 5,000 gallons per month will see an increase of $5.10 after the first phase that includes the water and wastewater increase. The same customer would see an increase of $2.72 as a result of the second phase of the wastewater increase and another $2.98 increase in the third phase of the wastewater increase.
If other companies can occupy the vacating businesses and produce similar water and wastewater treatment numbers, the third phase-in would be rescinded from the ordinance.
After comments are taken, the council members will consider the ordinances on second and third reading.
The Plymouth City Council members will also hear public comment on a tax abatement request for the River Gate South Development, LLC project at the corner of Michigan Street and Lake Avenue. A resolution considering that tax abatement will follow the public hearing.
The 2018 salary ordinance will also be up for approval.
Prior to the city council meeting at 6 p.m., the Plymouth Board of Public Works and Safety members will consider a resolution concerning land sale proceeds out of the techFarm. A request for the Adopt-a-Street program with the Mayor’s Youth Council will also be discussed.
Both the Plymouth City Council and the Plymouth Board of Public Works and Safety will meet in the Fire Department Meeting Room at 111 N. Center Street.
