City Council explores revenue strategies amid 6% water rate increase concerns

During the recent budget session held by the City Council of Salisbury, significant discussions centered around the challenges facing the city's water works system and the potential for rate increases. As the council prepares for the 2025 budget, concerns were raised about the financial implications of maintaining and upgrading the aging water infrastructure, which includes pipes dating back to the 1920s.

Council members expressed the need for transparency regarding a proposed 6% rate increase for residents. They emphasized the importance of communicating the reasons behind this increase, particularly in light of ongoing issues with PFAS contamination and the necessity of replacing outdated infrastructure. The council acknowledged that while residents may not see an immediate change in their water usage, the costs associated with ensuring safe and reliable water services are rising.

In addition to rate increases, the council explored alternative revenue sources to support water and sewer operations. Discussions included looking into creative funding strategies employed by other municipalities, such as programs that assist residents struggling to pay their water bills. One example highlighted was the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission, which has implemented initiatives to help customers fix leaks and manage their water usage more effectively.

The council also noted that as Salisbury continues to grow, the addition of new residential and commercial units could lead to increased revenue for the water and sewer enterprise fund. This organic growth could help offset some of the financial pressures currently faced by the city.

As the council moves forward, the discussions from this meeting underscore the critical balance between maintaining essential services and managing the financial burden on residents. The council's commitment to exploring innovative solutions and transparent communication will be vital as they navigate these challenges in the coming years.