Fairview council approves five‑year utility rate plan to cover infrastructure projects and Well 10 debt

The Fairview City Council on June 3 approved Resolution 23‑2026, adopting a five‑year rate plan for water, wastewater and stormwater utilities recommended by Donovan Enterprises.

Staff said the plan includes tiered increases and that the first year of the five‑year profile reflects the need to fund a major water project (Well 10). Consultant Steve Donovan told council the loan and debt service for Well 10 are incorporated into the plan; once the $6.3 million project is completed, it will add roughly $275,000 per year in debt service and was a principal driver of the 15% initial water increase in the model.

Donovan also described a large future sewer need — the Sandy trunk line replacement — as a multi‑jurisdictional project that likely will surface in three to five years and will require planning and reserves. He cautioned that fuel and commodity price volatility could push costs higher and may require future course corrections.

Councilors pressed for affordability considerations. One councilor said many residents are on fixed incomes and asked what relief will be available; Donovan and staff noted the city maintains educational resources and a community resource guide and said staff will prepare outreach and customer assistance information. "Between Portland, Gresham...you currently have the lowest monthly utility bills," Donovan said in response to questions about comparative burden, while also warning that regional bills are rising.

The council opened and closed the public hearing and approved the resolution by roll call.