Water Rates Increase For Lincoln Residents

LINCOLN -- Residents in Lincoln will have an increase in their water rates the first of the new year.

Aldermen approved an ordinance establishing a water rate increase of 5-percent starting Jan. 1, 2015, at the Dec. 8 City Council meeting.

A three-step increase was approved in December 2013 and this increase is part of that program, which does not include sewer rates, according to Chuck Wood, city business manager. The rate increase is due to water rates being increased by Washington County Water Authority, which supplies water to Lincoln.

"The cost increase to cities for stuff can be enormous," Wood said. "We have to make sure we keep up with things and try to cut cost on other but we reach a point where we have to raise rates."

Rhonda Hulse, water department manager and grant writer, reported the city had received $55,000 in grant money this year. A grant from Cox was for $15,000 and a Fire Protection Grant was for $40,000.

Alderman Doug Hutchens reported the November sales tax distribution was $17,883 with the library receiving $5,365 and parks and recreation $1,341. The total in the capital improvement account is $123,327.

Mayor Rob Hulse and aldermen presented Coby Hall with a plaque for his service to the city, since December was the last time he would sit on the council.

Johnny Stowers has been approved by the council to take Hall's place in Ward 4 position 2. A position still remains open for Ward 3 position 2.

General News on 12/17/2014