The Board of Public Works met with members of the Marshall City Council during a work session Wednesday to provide information about a potential water rate increase MMU plans to pursue in the next few months.

MMU Controller Tony Bersano stated that the board is seeking an increase of about 20 percent to compensate for increased supply costs and capital improvement projects at the Water Treatment Plant. Bersano noted that customers will see about a $6 increase on water bills per month. The rate increase would also help offset the steady decline in the department’s rate of return over the past several years.

General Manager Jeff Bergstrom tells KMMO News that the rate increase is necessary to help MMU maintain a quality water system.

 

The work session allowed council members to ask questions and learn more about the financial impact of the increase. Marshall Mayor Craig Thompson says he appreciates that MMU is being proactive and thorough during this process.

 

The Board of Public Works plans to approve the increase in April and bring it to the City Council in May. The council would need to pass both readings of an ordinance for final approval.