The Pierre City Commission is considering a proposal to increase the city’s electric, wastewater and water usage rates by 3%.
After a few years of steady numbers, Utilities Director Brad Palmer says the increase is needed to cover both capital and operational costs.
In total, Palmer says residential customers will see a roughly $6 increase in their monthly bill.
In comparison, Palmer says Pierre’s water, electric and wastewater utility rates are in line with communities around the state.
The proposal will be back before the city commission for consideration and final action at their meeting next week (Nov. 26, 2024). If approved, the rate increase would go into effect Jan. 1, 2025.
For full proposed ordinance language, visit cityofpierre.org.
WRITTEN VERSION:
The Pierre City Commission is considering a proposal to increase the city’s electric, wastewater, and water rates.
The proposal, brought forward by city staff at this week’s commission meeting, calls for a 3% increase to each of the three utility rates. According to staff, the increase is needed to cover both capital and operational costs.
“The price of doing business doesn’t often decrease, and that’s the case here,” said Brad Palmer, City Utilities Director. “We have some major capital expenses in each of our utilities, as well as ongoing operational expenses.”
Palmer added that electrical rates haven’t changed since 2019, wastewater since 2021, and water since 2022.
“We try to limit increases; we can only hold off for so many years before an increase becomes needed.”
The proposal will come back to the commission at their Nov. 26 meeting for consideration and final action. If approved, the rate increase will go into effect Jan. 1.
For full proposed ordinance language, visit cityofpierre.org.
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