Wayne council approves modest water and sewer rate increases starting July 1

The Wayne City Council on April 7 approved a combined increase of $0.34 per unit for water and $0.35 per unit for sewer service, measures that take effect on July 1, 2026.

City staff described the change as a partial pass-through of a rate increase from the regional supplier. "Great Lakes Water Authority is increasing our rate by 5.62%, and we're only raising the rates for residents by 4% this year," said Katie, the city official presenting the proposal. Staff estimated an average family of four using six units would pay about $4.14 more on a bimonthly bill, roughly $24.84 annually.

Council members discussed timing and the city's reserves. Earlier in the meeting a resident noted roughly $1 million in the water/sewer fund and asked whether the increase could be delayed; administration said the larger regional rate and ongoing infrastructure costs make an adjustment necessary. The council decided to take a smaller share of the increase than the regional authority sought.

On a roll call vote the motion passed: Prom Brock yes; Dow yes; Was yes; Corals yes; Darwitch no; Lawrence yes; Mayor John P. Raci yes. The motion carries 6–1.

The council did not amend the effective date; staff said bills will reflect the new rates beginning July 1, and that further adjustments would return to council if additional changes are required.

Next steps: the new rates will be implemented for bills issued after July 1; customers with billing questions were directed to city utility staff.