Lincoln tabled proposed multi‑year water rate increases; commission to revisit Sept. 9

The Lincoln Water Commission at a special meeting on an agenda item about water rates voted to table final action until Sept. 9 after hearing a consultant recap and extended public comment. The commission discussed a proposed multi‑year rate plan designed to rebuild capital reserves after seven years without increases and repeated wholesale price hikes from the Providence water supplier.

Dave Deaver of D and D Consulting told the commission revenues for 2026 were within about 3% of projections and recommended the commission "stick with the plan" for 2027 and consider changes in 2028 to avoid a larger jump later. A member of the public, Francis O'Connell, urged the commission to address perceived inequities for multi‑unit residents and asked why some customers were being charged higher, effectively "industrial" rates despite low usage. The commission accepted a motion "to table the action on the rate structure until September 9," which passed by voice vote.