City Council evaluates new culinary water impact fee reducing costs for new builders

A significant shift in North Ogden's approach to water impact fees was announced during the City Council meeting on July 8, 2025. The council is set to adopt a new culinary water impact fee, which will see a reduction for single-family homes from the previously proposed $73.84 to $62.73. This change translates to a decrease of over $1,100 for new home builders, a move that city officials believe will encourage development and ease the financial burden on residents.

City officials explained that the adjustment comes after a thorough review of the impact fee study, which revealed that the existing water system has sufficient capacity to accommodate new growth without requiring as much funding from new construction. "This is good news for our residents and those looking to build in the city," said a council member, emphasizing the positive implications for future development.

The new fee structure, which is set to take effect on October 15, 2025, is designed to comply with state regulations and can only be used for projects that serve new growth, excluding maintenance and operational costs. The council discussed the importance of balancing the need for revenue with the desire to attract new businesses to the area, noting that North Ogden's fees may be among the highest in Weber County.

In a related discussion, the council decided to table the decision on the culinary water impact fee until after addressing transportation impact fees, highlighting the interconnected nature of these financial considerations. The council's deliberations reflect a broader strategy to ensure that North Ogden remains an attractive location for new businesses while managing the costs associated with growth effectively.