Hike in water rates rejected

Oregon residents will not be seeing an increase in their water rates—at least not right now.

The council voted 3-2 Monday night to reject a motion by Commissioner Bob Rees to increase rates for minimum use by $3 a month.

“We need to do this now in order to keep pace with operational costs,” said Rees.

But Commissioner Ken Williams, who oversees the city’s finances, asked Rees to hold off on the increase pending more research.

“I think you are probably right and we are going to have to raise the rates, but I am just asking for more time to take a look at this. We may not need to raise them this much right now,” said Williams.

Rees disagreed and called for the vote. The motion to increase the minimum rates from $28.21 to $31.21 failed by a 3-2 vote.

Rees and Jim Lauer voted for the increase while Williams, Commissioner Tom Miller, and Mayor Tom Stone voted no.

The minimum fee is based on usage of 3,000 gallons and includes $19 for sewer service.