The Winslow City Council cleared the final hurdle to amend the schedule of rates, fees and charges pertaining to utility rates in the city. The proposed increases have been discussed throughout the budget cycle and were approved in the city’s 2017-18 budget last month.
The July 11 vote was to adopt an ordinance as public record and to put the increases into effect.
Finance Director Elias Jouen explained the rising costs of operation of municipal services and cited a study done by the Water Infrastructure Finance Authority of Arizona showing a need for rate increases statewide.
The increases will be two percent for water service, three percent for wastewater and three percent for garbage removal. Currently, residential customers pay between $2.51 and $5.03 in a tiered system per 1,000 gallons of water usage. The increase will have customers on that tier paying between $2.56 and $5.13. The base rate for residential sewer services is $4.60 per 1,000 gallons and that will increase to $4.74. Garbage pick up has a base rate of $26.77 for residents that will be increased to $27.57.
Winslow business owner Brian Scaramuzzo addressed the issue of garbage pick up at the meeting. “The thought came to my mind that the contract between the city and Waste Management is $6 per household and marked up to $26-plus by the city. Why is it a necessity to increase fees?” Scaramuzzo asked.
There was also speculation by Winslow resident Laurie Lashomb that the cost of newly placed water meters throughout Winslow could be a reason for raising utility prices. “This council and this mayor approved a meter system that will be obsolete before we pay for it,” she said.
There was no comment from the council on the matter and the ordinance passed a roll call vote with one “no” vote from Councilwoman Judy Howell. She noted, “I think we are pricing our businesses out of business.” Councilman Bob Schlesinger not present.
Citizens wishing to obtain a copy of the fees may visit city hall at 21 N. Williamson Ave.
