March 28, 2024

Utility rates set for Prairie City

A public hearing for utility rates for the fiscal year 2019-20 along with the first reading for the rates started the process to make the numbers a reality for the City of Prairie City. The city’s water, sewer and solid waste rates were discussed and action was taken during the regular monthly meeting April 10.

“These reflect the figures that were given to us by PFM as well as the recommendation from council for the adjustments to the fourth tier (of the water rates) after our last discussion,” city administrator Joe Bartello said.

For water rates, the first 1,500 gallons used per month will be $16.09, the minimum for the bill. The next 8,500 will be charged at $9.45 per 1,000 gallons with the third tier, beginning at the next 30,000 gallons is at $7.80 per 1,000 gallons. The final fourth tier for usage more than 40,000 is set at $3.22 per 1,000 gallons.

Sewer rates start at $25.95 for the first 1,500 gallons used per month, also the minimum bill. The second tier for the next 8,500 is set at $15.08 per 1,000 gallons and the third tier rate is $12.51 per 1,000 gallons for the next 30,000. All usage more than 40,000 gallons will be charged at $5.18 per 1,000 gallons.

For solid waste collection, fees start at $11.13 per month for a 35 gallon container, $15.97 per month for a 64 gallon container and $20.82 per month for a 96 gallon container. Each additional bag set out for collection must have a solid waste sticker attached to it. Each bag also should not exceed 30 gallons in capacity or 50 pounds in weight. The fee for each solid waste sticker is $1.

The city’s recycling fee is set at $3.17 per month.

The utility rates will have two additional readings before being adopted into code. The rates will take effect July 1 after its final approval and adoption into city code.

In other business:

• The council approved a $6,000 purchase for inflatables to be used during Prairie Days. A $2,000 deposit as a down payment and the remaining $4,000 will be paid at the time of the event. The funds will come from the celebration trust purchases.

Contact Jamee A. Pierson at 641-792-3121 ext. 6534 or jpierson@newtondailynews.com