Florence council approves water and wastewater rate increase effective April 1

The Town of Florence on Tuesday adopted Resolution 1925-24 to amend the fee schedule for town‑owned water and wastewater utilities, with the new rates set to take effect April 1, 2025. The council approved the resolution after a staff presentation and public hearing.

Staff member Mr. Dudding told the council the rate action follows the town’s utility rate study and recent capital‑project cost increases. “The last one was adopted in September 2022,” he said, and the study provided a five‑ to ten‑year schedule. He added that inflation and larger capital costs have made the low‑growth model preferable now and that an updated rate study is likely in fiscal 2026.

The staff presentation estimated an average residential impact of about $51 a year and said the burden would be roughly 37% on residences and 63% on commercial, institutional and government customers. Council members asked for clarifications about timing: Ms. Bucellato noted the last step of the current plan was implemented 12 months ago.

During the public hearing, resident Sherry Harr urged the council to consider the effect of small increases on residents on fixed incomes and thanked council members for careful review. Arthur Wilkerson, earlier in the meeting, had urged the town to use available state funds for school safety staffing rather than leaving them unused.

After the hearing, a council member moved to adopt Resolution 1925‑24; another council member seconded. The motion carried by voice vote with one member recorded in opposition. The resolution document specifies the amended fee schedule will be effective 04/01/2025.

The town manager indicated staff will likely return in the next budget cycle with an updated rate study to refine multi‑year projections and capital needs.