Parowan council adopts new culinary water rate schedule; one councilor dissenting

Parowan — The Parowan City Council voted April 16 to adopt a revised schedule of culinary water rates following multiple staff briefings and a rate study. The resolution passed by roll call 4–1.

City staff and outside consultant Aaron (from Owen Collins) briefed the council on the rate scenarios and fiscal implications for utility operations. Council members noted concern over hitting utility customers with multiple increases in a short period; one council member asked that the automatic electrical‑rate increase scheduled later this year be suspended if the water increase proceeds. Staff explained the mechanics: a decrease or suspension of an electrical automatic adjustment can be implemented administratively, and any separate council action on electrical rates would be returned to the council as needed.

After discussion, council members approved the culinary water rate schedule as proposed (resolution referenced in discussion as 2026‑02/2026‑06). The approval was by roll call; the final tally was four in favor and one opposed. Several council members said they supported the water increase but preferred discussing electrical‑rate timing separately rather than making the water action contingent on a rescission.

Staff noted ongoing budgetary work to absorb any short‑term revenue timing effects as fiscal year‑end approaches and said the new rates will be reflected in upcoming billing cycles and the next budget year’s revenue forecast.