Jamestown Utility Rate Hike Approved, City Council Vote Looms

UPDATE: The Jamestown Finance and Legal Committee has just approved a significant increase in utility rates, set to take effect on January 1, 2024, pending final approval from the City Council on November 3, 2023. This recommendation comes in the midst of rising operational costs, potentially impacting every resident and business in Jamestown.

Residents can expect an average increase of 7% across water utility rates, with specifics revealing a monthly hike of $1.90 for residential users. The new rate will climb from $27.20 to $29.10 per month. For commercial multi-unit rentals and mobile home courts, the increase is set at 95 cents, shifting the monthly charge from $13.60 to $14.55 for the first 400 cubic feet of water used.

In addition to water rates, the adjustments include increases in garbage container fees, with residential rates for a 35-gallon container rising to $16 per month, an increase of 15 cents. Larger containers will see even bigger jumps, as the 65-gallon option will now cost $20, while the 95-gallon option will rise to $23, affecting many households and businesses.

Sarah Hellekson, the city administrator, stated that sewer utility rates are also poised for a 7% increase, adding a 61 cent rise for residential and business users. The base rate will increase from $8.65 to $9.26 per month, further straining the budgets of local residents.

This rate adjustment is crucial as the city grapples with financial pressures and seeks to maintain service quality. The implications of these increases are significant for families and local businesses, many of whom are already facing economic challenges.

In a separate but related matter, the committee also recommended a new memorandum of agreement for joint library services between Jamestown and Stutsman County. Hellekson will collaborate with Jessica Alonge, Stutsman County auditor/chief operating officer, to draft this agreement. The current agreement, which has been in place since 2008, was put into question when Jamestown announced plans to withdraw due to the county’s inadequate financial contributions.

The county commission has recently approved an increase in the mill levy for the James River Valley Library System, which will provide an additional $199,000 for the library in the 2026 budget. This increase will elevate the mill levy from 1.93 to 4 mills, potentially alleviating some of the financial strains on library services.

As residents await the final vote on utility rates, the city remains in a precarious position regarding its library services. The two-year notice to withdraw from the joint agreement will become effective on February 28, 2027, unless a new agreement is reached.

What’s next? The upcoming City Council meeting on November 3, 2023, will be critical. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and voice their opinions as these utility rate increases could significantly impact their monthly expenses. Share your thoughts on social media to keep the conversation going!