Serving the Big Horn Basin for over 100 years
Serving the Big Horn Basin for over 100 years
WORLAND — Worland residents may see an increase in their sewer and sanitation fees if two ordinances are passed by the Worland City Council.
The council passed ordinances No. 828 and 829 on first reading Tuesday night which increase sanitation and sewer fees, respectively. The ordinances must pass two more readings to take effect.
Worland City Clerk/Treasurer Tracy Glanz said the increased sanitation fees are in response to the Washakie County Solid Waste Disposal District’s decision to begin assessing tipping fees. Glanz said the city currently pays $30 per ton to dispose of residents’ garbage.
If Ordinance No. 828 passes without amendment, residents’ sanitation fees will increase from $15 to $23.50 per month. Commercial sanitation rates will increase from $18 to $26.50 per month.
Even with the increased fees, Glanz said the city expects a budget shortfall of about $200,000 for the remainder of the 2014 – 2015 fiscal year, which ends in July.
“It’s so unknown right now – that’s the problem,” Glanz said during Tuesday night’s meeting.
Sewer rates
Immediately after passing Ordinance No. 828, the council passed ordinance No. 829 on first reading. If passed, sewer rates will increase from $20.30 per month to $26.49 per month.
The increased rates are in response to the city’s recent state-mandated annual audit which advised that the city make up a $130,000 shortfall in the sewer fund.