Residents of Grayville will see higher sewer rates at the end of September, following adjustments approved during Monday night’s council meeting. Mayor Travis Thompson explained that the city is seeking a grant to upgrade its sewer lagoon and system, which requires these rate changes to meet minimum eligibility criteria.
To qualify for the DCEO (Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity) grant, the minimum charge for 5,000 gallons of sewer service must be set at 1% of the median income, amounting to $44.98. The proposed rates will keep the first 1,000 gallons at $6.12 for residents within city limits, ensuring those who do not exceed this amount will not face an increase. For those outside city limits, the rate will remain at $9.18.
For usage between 2,000 and 4,000 gallons, the rates will increase to $7.30 for city residents and $10.95 for those outside. However, for any usage at 5,000 gallons or more, the rates will revert to $6.12 inside city limits and $9.18 outside, thereby meeting the DCEO’s requirements while keeping costs manageable for residents.
These new rates will take effect on September 30.
During the meeting, Commissioner Don Baldwin requested the council’s support in sending a letter to the Department of Conservation to seek clarification regarding the Wabash River boat ramp. He also mentioned concerns from residents about the storage of campers and boats in the downtown area, though no further action was discussed on those topics. Additionally, Commissioner Chris James announced that the cemetery road has been completed and is now ready for use.
Grayville will use $34,500 from Motor Fuel Tax funds for its share of an IDOT project at the North Street intersection along Route 1, although bidding for the project won’t occur until next March.
The council also held the first reading of Ordinance 962, which aims to establish a Business District in Grayville following a public hearing held prior to the regular session.
In his report, Chief Robert Hatcher noted that Grayville Police responded to 233 calls for service in August, made eight arrests, issued 22 citations, and provided eight written warnings. He also announced that the USDA grant for a new squad car has been approved, with the vehicle currently awaiting the installation of necessary equipment.
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