Title
Approval of an Ordinance Relating to Utility Rates, Fees, and Charges
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
The proposed rates and charges reflect recommendations from the Finance Committee and the Utility Advisory Committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Move to approve on second reading the ordinance adopting the 2025 utility rates and general facilities charges.
Report
Issue:
Whether Move to approve on second reading the ordinance adopting the 2025 utility rates and general facilities charges.
Staff Contact:
Jesse Barham, Water Resources Director, Public Works Department, 360.753.8164
Mike Vessey, Drinking Water Utility Director, Public Works Department, 360.753.8318
Gary Franks, Waste ReSources Director, Public Works Department, 360.753.8780
Presenter(s):
None - Consent Calendar Item.
Background and Analysis:
Background and analysis did not change from first to second reading.
Utility Rates
City of Olympia provides vital utility services to our community. For 2025, staff is proposing revenue increases (rounded) as follows:
* Drinking Water 3.9%
* Storm and Surface Water 5.2%
* Wastewater 5.3%
* Waste ReSources 7.6%
* LOTT 3.0%
* Combined increase of 4.72% or $14.52 for a typical bi-monthly/single family account.
Key financial drivers for the proposed 2025 rates include:
* Transfer of the Clean Team into Waste ReSources, associated reorganization and increase in staffing.
* Temporary Reduction in Waste ReSources Capital funding for Carpenter Road facility.
* Street sweeping fully funded by the Storm and Surface Water utility.
* Wastewater and Drinking Water support for an affordable housing infrastructure support program.
* Staffing needs in Storm and Surface Water to support street sweeping and vegetation management.
* Cost of living adjustment and increased benefits costs.
* Increased city hall rent, insurance and vehicle related fleet costs.
General Facilities Charges
Consistent with rate consultant financial analyses, staff is pro...
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