The Sedalia City Council approved ordinances amending the water and sewer use charges during its meeting on Monday, March 20, 2023.

A public meeting was held on amending the charges prior to the council meeting.

City Administrator Kelvin Shaw stated the sewer use charge will increase nine and one-half percent and the water use charge will increase five percent.

Shaw stated much of the increase is due to increases in labor and materials, especially pipe. Shaw also stated that many communities that do not keep up with operating costs end up with no choice but to sell the utilities to an outside entity, who in turn in many cases raise rates substantially.

The rate changes will be effective on April 1, 2023.