In the heart of Lafayette City Hall, council members gathered to address a pressing issue that could impact every resident: a proposed water rate increase. The meeting, held on August 4, 2025, marked the beginning of a formal process that could see rates rise for the first time since 2018, as the city prepares for continued growth and infrastructure improvements.

Mayor Tony Roswarski opened the discussion by emphasizing the necessity of the increase, citing the city's ongoing expansion and the need for substantial investments in water infrastructure. "Lafayette is a growing community," he stated, highlighting the millions allocated for upgrades to the wastewater treatment plant and the water supply system. The proposed rate increase, if approved, would take effect in 2026 and is aimed at funding critical projects, including the development of a new well field and the replacement of aging lead service lines.

The mayor explained that Lafayette's existing well fields, Canal Road and Glick, are reaching their limits. To ensure a reliable water supply for future growth, the city plans to establish a new well field strategically located to serve the upper system, which supplies 80% of the city. Additionally, redundant wells will be added to the Glick Well Field to maintain capacity during maintenance or mechanical failures.

A significant portion of the funds raised from the rate increase—estimated at $30 million—will be allocated to replacing lead service lines, a federal mandate that Lafayette must comply with. The city has identified approximately 3,600 lead lines, and while initial estimates suggested a higher number, the cost to replace these lines remains substantial. The mayor reassured residents that efforts are underway to secure grants and low-interest loans to help offset these costs.

The proposed rate increase would see the monthly bill for an average household using 5,000 gallons of water rise from $17.81 to $23.32 in the first phase and eventually to $29.61 in the second phase. While the percentage increase of 66.2% may sound alarming, officials noted that it translates to a modest increase in actual dollars over two years.

Council members expressed concerns about the financial health of the water utility, with one member pointing out that the system has been operating at a deficit. The mayor acknowledged this issue, stating that the city has been diligent in managing its finances but now faces unavoidable costs associated with necessary upgrades.

Public feedback was mixed, with some residents voicing strong opposition to any rate increase. One resident, Pearl Speakman, passionately argued against the proposal, demanding transparency and accountability from city officials regarding how excess funds would be managed.

As the council prepares to submit the proposal to the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC), the process will include public hearings and further discussions. The outcome remains uncertain, but the city is committed to ensuring that Lafayette's water infrastructure can support its growing population while maintaining reasonable rates for its residents. The council's decision will not only shape the future of Lafayette's water supply but also reflect the community's priorities as it navigates the challenges of growth and sustainability.