Red Hook board sets public hearing on Water District No.1 rate increases and adjusts per‑gallon charge

The Red Hook Town Board voted on Resolution No.18 at its May 12 meeting to establish a public hearing on proposed changes to water rates and charges for Water District No.1. The water board has sought rate increases to cover debt service for a proposed rehabilitation of the town’s water storage tank.

At the meeting the board modified the proposed over‑quota per‑thousand‑gallon charge and the motion adopted a $7.45 per‑thousand‑gallon rate in the schedule filed with the town clerk. Board members discussed timing: the water board had recommended increases that assumed proceeds from parcel disposition might help offset costs; since the parcel disposition timeline is uncertain, members noted increases could require further public hearings if the amount materially changes.

A roll‑call style exchange in the transcript recorded at least one dissent during the adoption of the resolution; the chair declared the resolution passed. The public hearing date and the final rate schedule are on file with the town clerk and will be formally noticed; the chair also directed staff to publish corrected notices and to mail postcards to the water district users where practicable.

Why it matters: water rates affect the 488 Water District No.1 users and are tied to financing decisions for the tank rehabilitation. The board signaled it will use the upcoming public hearing to collect comment and could adjust rates based on bid results and any sale proceeds that might offset costs.

Sources: Chair, town clerk (notice and packet), water board statements included in packet.