City Council proposes significant increases for water and wastewater rate structures

The Georgetown Workshop held on July 8, 2025, focused on critical updates regarding the city's utility services, including electric and water operations. The meeting began with discussions on the proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year, emphasizing the need for additional staffing and infrastructure improvements to accommodate the city's growth.

One of the primary agenda items was the electric utility's plan to implement a streetlight conversion project to LED technology. This initiative aims to reduce costs and enhance the efficiency of the streetlight system. The budget proposal included funding for consulting services related to a new SCADA system, minor office hardware purchases, and a training kit for electric safety, totaling approximately $15,000.

The electric crew staffing was also a significant topic, with a request for five new positions, including an electric crew leader and utility operators. The total cost for these positions, including vehicle expenses, was estimated at nearly $900,000. The discussion clarified that vehicle costs were not double-counted in the budget.

Transitioning to water utility matters, the meeting highlighted ongoing efforts in water resource planning and infrastructure development to support groundwater expansion. The city anticipates a 9% increase in water rates and a 12% increase in wastewater rates, driven by rising operational costs and capital improvement projects. The proposed rate changes are expected to generate approximately $13.3 million in revenue.

The workshop also addressed the separation of the combined electric and water control center to improve operational efficiency. The city is working on a comprehensive five-year capital improvement plan to support the growing demand for water services, with a focus on maintaining compliance with regulatory standards.

In conclusion, the Georgetown Workshop underscored the city's commitment to enhancing utility services through strategic staffing, infrastructure investments, and necessary rate adjustments. The discussions set the stage for upcoming budget proposals and operational changes aimed at meeting the needs of a rapidly growing community.