Utility rates are rarely an easy topic for councils to approach, and it is a matter the Guymon City Council has not touched since 2009. On Nov. 17, discussion about what to do with the current rates moving forward took place during a special council meeting.
Interim City Manager Larry Mitchell noted that an adjustment of utility rates could be necessary simply to continue to cover the cost of operations. Three options for rate increases were presented to council, including increases for sewer and water services.
"Over the last six weeks, we have been providing council with information in regards to our current utility rates," Mitchell said. "We believe it is necessary to proceed with adjusting those rates to at least cover the cost of operations for the water treatment plant, sewer treatment plant, maintenance of our collection systems and the operation of our sanitation service."
Mitchell rendered his recommendation to council, presenting the options for council and those in attendance at the meeting.
The new rates were approved unanimously by council to go into effect on Jan. 1, 2017.
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