Vermillion City Council approves utility resale agreement with Midwest Mobile Home Park

The Vermillion City Council meeting on May 6, 2025, focused on several key issues, including the authorization for Midwest Mobile Home Park LLC to resell water and sewer services and the introduction of two proposed ordinances regarding utility services.

The council discussed an agreement allowing Midwest Mobile Home Park to resell water and sewer services to its tenants. This decision follows a violation of the park's previous authorization, which did not cover the current system. The proposed rates include a flat fee of $7, with water usage charged at the same rate as the city, and sewer fees set at $51.12 per lot. Council members noted that while some residents may see an increase in costs, others might benefit from lower charges, as tenants will now pay for their actual usage rather than a flat rate included in their rent. The council unanimously approved the resolution, emphasizing that the park cannot profit from these services.

Additionally, the council reviewed proposed Ordinance 15-30, which aims to clarify the resale of utility services, ensuring that all utilities are covered under the same regulations. This ordinance will require the installation of meters to prevent overcharging. The council also discussed Ordinance 15-31, which updates language related to electricity resale to align with the previous ordinance. Both ordinances were advanced for further consideration.

Lastly, the council addressed a service rights agreement with Clay Rural Water Systems for a property recently annexed into the city. The agreement, which includes a one-time purchase fee of $2,400 for service rights, was approved by the council. This transfer will not change existing infrastructure at the site.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the council's efforts to regulate utility services effectively and ensure fair pricing for residents. The next steps include further readings of the proposed ordinances and the implementation of the service rights agreement.