Sherwood utility moves ahead with Well No. 3 after PSC authorization; sewer rates revised earlier in 1983

The Sherwood Water & Sewer Utility advanced plans in 1983 to strengthen the village water supply and stabilize utility finances. Early in the year the commission voted to drill a test well on the pumphouse property; later in October the Public Service Commission formally authorized construction of Well No. 3 and related facilities at an estimated total project cost of $49,000.

The PSC letter, included in the village record, stated: "The commission hereby authorizes your utility to proceed with the construction of Well No. 3 and related facilities as detailed in your application at an estimated cost of $49,000." The PSC also advised the village to submit final bids and to notify the commission of any substantial changes to design, size, location or cost.

Sewer rates revised: earlier, in April 1983, both the Utility Commission and the Village Board put in place a revised sewer-rate schedule. The adopted structure set a minimum quarterly charge of $30 for meters up to 3/4-inch; a volume charge of $2.00 per 1,000 gallons applies to usage over 5,000 gallons per quarter. Commercial minimums were set at $65 (1"), $130 (1½") and $195 (2") meters. R. Steffes moved and J. Schmidt seconded acceptance of the new sewer rates on a trial basis; the board carried that motion unanimously.

Operational items and capital choices: the utility reviewed repair costs for lift-station pumps and opted to rebuild an existing High Cliff pump (estimated $1,300–$1,500) rather than purchase a new unit (~$6,500). The commission also authorized infiltration/inflow studies (monitoring, smoke testing) and prioritized Escarpment Terrace sewer repairs and manhole rehabilitation.

Budget and rate impact: the PSC analysis included in the record estimated that allocating construction costs to general service would add roughly $3.68 per quarter for an average residential customer (12,348 gallons/quarter) if all costs were passed through; the PSC noted any actual rate request would be set by a separate proceeding.