1998 MIN JUL 21 - Laserfiche WebLink

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-1h This was the time and place fixed to consider a general rate increase in water charges of 20 % to become effective September 1998. Mayor Gaytan declared the Public Hearing "Open." City Clerk Barrera submitted the Affidavit of Publication and reported that no protests or objections were received. Utility Director Clarke gave a comprehensive report, with detailed graphic presentation highlighting the Water Master Plan, the three year Capital Improvement Program and the system components. Staff recommended passage of the proposed ordinance, adopting a 20 % general water rate increase, to become effective in September. The following persons commented on the proposed water rate increase: John Longfield, Charles Jackson, Fred Cordova. MOTTON/VOTE: Motion/second by CM Sanders/ Chastain to close the Public Hearing carried with no opposition thereto. CM Bennett was absent. City Attorney Carvalho advised that there was a need to correct the language in SECTION 2 of proposed Ordinance No. 0-15-98, by deleting "...shall take effect on August 1, 1998" and by inserting "...shall take effect thirty days after the date of its adoption." MOTION/VOTE-. Motion made by CM Sanders, seconded by CM Chastain, to waive full reading and pass first reading of Ordinance No. 0-15-98, with the correct language to SECTION 2. Discussion followed on the following issues: Classes of service; future revenue bonds for debt service streams; three-year construction program; development fees; assurance that fees will be used for CIP; assistance for citizens with fixed income status; For clarification, City Attorney Carvalho restated Council's direction to the Utility Director to continue working with the Utilities Commission to provide some type of discounts or some other type of financial assistance to lower income people. She clarified that the direction could not be condition precedent on the ordinance. It was noted that there was a low-income discount now in place. Discussion continued regarding impact on new services; reservoir retrofitting; booster stations; and the need for frequent accountability reports for public and Council. As requested, City Treasurer Williams commented on the budget and existing City law restricting transfer of funds. On bond issue, he said that payment was based on requisition and stated there were very tight controls. Further discussion had on savings to the citizens via CFDs and utility users tax; reliability of services; growth of City; comparison with surrounding cities; 2% discount on payment of utilities within five (5) days; spreadsheet report; and RDA improvement funds. Council Mins July 21,1998' 3