City officials to decide utility rate increases

Carson City property owners may see increases in water and sewer rates and water-connection fees by June 1.

City supervisors are expected to make an initial decision on the first increase in fees in more than 10 years.

After holding a March public workshop that six residents attended, city staff will present supervisors with recommendation for changes, said Tom Hoffert, utilities operations manager.

"We explored a lot of options," he said. A utility advisory committee of business, industrial, commercial and residential representatives and residents has met since December 2001 to develop the new rate system.

Staff is also proposing to refigure the rate schedule for water customers. The flat monthly service charge will be reduced by 10 percent then rates will be increased, according to water use.

The cost for 1,000 gallons will be increased by 21.47 percent, Hoffert said. The cost for up to 5,000 gallons per month will cost 49 cents per 1,000 gallons, a 9-cent increase.

Customers will be charged 73 cents per 1,000 gallons used a month for the next 5,001 to 15,000 gallons. The next 15,000 to 50,000 gallons per month will cost $1.01 per 1,000 gallons. More than 50,000 gallons will cost $1.58 per 1,000 gallons.

"The more you use, the more you're going to pay," Hoffert said.

He estimates those who use 10,000 gallons of water a month or less will see a 5 percent increase at most.

The last time the city raised water rates was in 1993. The new system will allow the city to revise and adjust rates each year, Hoffert said. A review will be brought to the Board of Supervisors before April 1 each year.

If passed Thursday, the changes will require a second public hearing, but the rates are expected to go into effect by June 1.

Proposed sewer and water rates

-- Sewer connection fees of $5,777, a $3,551 increase;

-- A 9.1 percent increase in sewer rates;

-- Water-connection fees of $3,968, a $634 increase.

IF YOU GO

What: Board of Supervisors regular meeting

When: 8:30 a.m. Thursday

Where: Sierra Room, Carson City Community Center, 851 E. William St.