Isanti council approves increases to water and sewer charges, 4-1

City staff presented an ordinance to amend Chapter 262 to raise water access charges and base fees and to increase sewer access and usage charges. The proposal calls for a 5% increase in 2025 for water access and base charges, followed by 3% increases in later years; sewer rates would increase 5% in 2025 and 3% thereafter. Staff said per-capita water usage in the city has risen well above the state average and that the increases are intended to fund future well and storage infrastructure.

Councilmembers debated the timing and magnitude of increases. One member said two unusually dry years contributed to past shortages and asked whether the city truly needs a new well; others said delaying could force much larger increases later or require bonding. After discussion, the council voted 4-1 to adopt the ordinance, with one member dissenting.

The ordinance was posted for the required 10-day notice and staff said they will monitor usage and revenue and may adjust in future years based on actual collections and system demand.