The Brockton City Council's ordinance committee convened to discuss a critical amendment to the water usage fee structure, aimed at addressing financial challenges within the city's wastewater services. Councilor Wynn Farwell led the meeting, emphasizing the urgency of the proposed changes due to the current reliance on the general fund to subsidize the enterprise account for wastewater services. This practice has strained resources available for essential city services, including libraries, police, and fire departments.

The ordinance, introduced by Councilor Moises Rodriguez, seeks to increase the quarterly usage fee for water, a move supported by a comprehensive study conducted by CDM Smith. This study, presented by Chief Financial Officer Troy Clarkson and DPW Commissioner Patrick Hill, highlighted the necessity of adjusting rates to avoid budget reductions or service cuts. The sewer budget, approved at $23.3 million, and the water budget at $23.7 million, were both contingent on increased revenues, which have not been realized without rate adjustments.

Commissioner Hill noted that the last rate increase occurred in July 2020, and the proposed 18% increase, while significant, is deemed necessary to align with budgetary needs and future capital projects. The committee discussed potential adjustments to lessen the impact of these increases on residents, with suggestions for an effective date for the new rates potentially backdated to July 1.

The meeting underscored the importance of timely action to ensure the financial stability of Brockton's water and sewer services, with councilors expressing a commitment to finding a balanced approach that meets revenue requirements while considering the community's needs.