Johnson City Commission approves $54M capital budget for water and wastewater improvements

The Johnson City Board of Commissioners convened on May 1, 2025, to discuss critical improvements to the city’s potable water and wastewater systems. The meeting focused on proposed ordinances aimed at enhancing infrastructure and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.

The first item on the agenda addressed the ordinance related to the potable water system. City officials emphasized the importance of ongoing improvements to maintain reliable service and meet increasing demand. Over the past three and a half years, the city has developed nine master plans to guide these enhancements, with significant input from rate consultants. The proposed adjustments to water rates, which range from $2 to $5 per month depending on customer class, aim to fund approximately $54 million in debt-funded projects and an additional $26 million in recurring costs over the next four years. These adjustments are designed to keep rates competitive while ensuring the sustainability of the water system.

Commissioners highlighted the necessity of gradual rate increases to avoid larger, reactive hikes in the future. They noted that the city’s water and sewer services operate as enterprise funds, meaning they are funded through user fees rather than taxes. This structure is intended to ensure that the costs of maintaining and improving the water system are borne by those who use it.

Following the discussion on potable water, the commission moved to the second ordinance concerning the wastewater system. This ordinance outlines necessary upgrades to the city’s wastewater infrastructure, which is traditionally more costly due to legacy issues and the need for compliance with environmental regulations. The proposed capital projects include significant investments in the city’s three wastewater treatment plants, with a focus on replacing aging equipment and enhancing capacity.

During the public hearing, Franke Haney, representing the Boone Lake Association, voiced strong support for the proposed wastewater improvements. He emphasized the importance of investing in infrastructure to protect local waterways and public health, noting that the cost of inaction would be far greater than the proposed investments.

The commission unanimously approved the ordinances for both the potable water and wastewater systems, marking a significant step toward ensuring the long-term reliability and safety of Johnson City’s water services. The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue prioritizing infrastructure improvements and maintaining open communication with the community regarding future developments.