The Jefferson City Council is seeking input about a potential increase to sewer rates in an effort to fund $44 million in improvements.
The proposal would increase rates by 2 percent in 2021 and an additional 5 percent annually until 2027. It would apply to anybody in the city's system, such as St. Martins and other areas around Cole County.
For instance, if a household's current bill is around $31, it would be around $43 by the end of the rate increase, according to board documents.
Projects that need to be done include upgrading meters, line replacements and the treatment plant.
The scheduled increases would put the city in a position to borrow funds for the projects and pay off the loans.
The council will hold a public hearing on the topic during Monday's meeting where members of the public can speak about the increase.
The proposal was set to be approved by the council at its April 5 meeting, but staff recommended postponing for a public comment period.
Consent agenda
Council members will consider authorizing use of a right-of-way in the 1200 block of East High Street right-of-way for the construction of a fence and a schedule for 2021-22 budget meetings.
New bills
Members will also consider:
A $82,649 agreement with G&R Construction for a roof on Fire Station 3
A $97,000 contract for corrective asphalt materials
A $50,000 contract with Cook, Floatt and Strobel Engineers for a transit feasibility study
Agreements with Cole County for joint projects on Grant Street for a new sidewalk and road work on the Missouri State Penitentiary property
A collective $215,000 for code abatement and demolition costs
Vacating the right-of-way that's part of East Dunklin Street and the right-of-way that's part of Handley Way Alley upon the request of adjacent property owners
Adopt regulations for scooter sharing businesses that would impose a 25 cent per ride business license fee.
Informal calendar
Council members could choose to address a $938,000 purchase agreement with two property owners in the 100 block of West McCarty Street for the construction of a second downtown parking garage.
How to participate
The City Council will meet in-person Monday, but will have a virtual option due to COVID-19 and social-distancing recommendations.
Community members can attend the meeting at 320 E. McCarty St. in the council chambers or view the meeting live via the city's YouTube page.
Those who wish to participate can also call into the meeting at 404-397-1516 or via WebEx with meeting number 187 934 3701 and password 1234.