Monticello proposes 10 percent increase in culinary water rates

by David Boyle
News Director
Monticello City moved forward discussions to increase water rates, approved the purchase of mower equipment for the Hideout, and heard concerns about the airport fuel system at their latest meeting.
Members of the city council discussed proposed raises in culinary water rates at their August 12 meeting. 
Earlier this year, members of the city council discussed the possibility of a 10 percent increase in rates for residents, which would equate to about $3.50 per month for a typical homeowner. 
The city says the increase is to support the water system, including upgrading water treatment and distribution and aid the city as it prepares for new debt.
The proposal would also have a drought mitigation component with higher prices for usage over 30,000 gallons a month. City staff reports most accounts don’t use 10,000 gallons a month.
The city reports that commercial rates will see a slight decrease.
The proposed rates will go to a public hearing to be held in September for possible approval.
In other water related news, a public hearing was held regarding a water revenue bond. The bond, just under $300,000 if approved, will grant access to $1 million in grant funds to go towards the purchase of water rights in Spring Creek. The city is aiming finalize the bond in September.
Members of the Monticello City Council also heard public concerns related to the Jet A fuel system at the city airport.
During public comment, city resident and Emergency Service Provider Jeremy Hoggard highlighted the system’s critical importance for air medical missions in the area.
Hoggard said that in the previous week, two incidents related to the fuel pump impacted patients, including a three-hour delay for a heart patient due to lack of fuel availability.
In response, city manager Kaeden Kulow said the fuel in the city system has gone bad and the city has been seeking a company to test the the system and dispose of the fuel at an estimated cost between $10,000 and $20,000.
There are other projects underway at the airport, members of the council asked to make the item a priority, with plans to receive an update on the issue at a future meeting.
Members of the Monticello city council approved an interlocal agreement with the county for the 2025 municipal elections. The agreement will see the city pay just over $10,000 to administer municipal elections.
Members of the council also approved the purchase of three sets of mower attachments for city mowers at the golf course.
Members of the city council postponed approval of an interlocal agreement with San Juan County to transfer the justice court services to the county for a five-year contract period as that agreement is under review.
During public comment, members of the council also heard from Scott Major, a resident of 500 North. Major thanked the city for their recent road grading and improved conditions on the dirt road within the city.
Members of the council also took time to recognize Gordon Kelly for his work in the community, including organizing “Recovery Day” in Monticello for the past two years to foster healing and hope.