Cheshire council recommends $495 sewer-use charge; WPCA retains authority

When the council approved the Water Pollution Control Fund operating budget on April 28, members included a recommendation to the Water Pollution Control Authority to set the sewer-use charge at $495 per year, a $5 increase from the current charge.

Budget Chair Fiona Pearson read the fund appropriation (resolution 042826-4) and noted the council "recommends that the Water Pollution Control Authority consider setting the sewer use charge at $495 per year effective 12/01/2026." Councilors asked for clarification and were reminded that only the WPCA may set the sewer-use rate; the council's action in this meeting is a recommendation to the authority.

Council discussion included a question from Councilor Velleber about how the $5 change compares to last year; staff clarified it represents a $5 increase. The Water Pollution Control Authority will consider the recommendation and take final action according to its own procedures.