Sioux Falls, SD (KELO-AM) The City of Sioux Falls is proposing that utility rates be raised up to 18 percent over the next three years to cover growth costs. City Public Works Director Mark Cotter briefed City Council and others Tuesday. The measure received it's first reading during the full council meeting. The increase proposals got the attention of incoming City Councilors Theresa Stehly and Greg Neitzert, both of whom appeared to address the proposed hikes.
"I've heard from those on fixed incomes and they're just tired of rate increases and they just want some relief" said a clearly nervous Neitzert, who claims he's visited nearly 2500 homes during recent campaigning. Neitzert said when he attended the informational briefing, he felt it was a "play", orchestrated to discredit those against increases.
At-large Councilor-Elect Theresa Stehly, says she'd like to see the measure postponed until after the four new council members are seated, next month. She says the state has a Pubilc Utility Commission that studies rate hikes, and the city out to deliberate more about the issue. She also pointed out that firms seeking state hikes are not always given approval for the full amounts requested.
Several citizens also were vocal of the proposal, wondering why the second penny sales tax couldn't be used to address increasing costs. Others voiced some support and understanding of the move.
The Council voted in favor of a preliminary approval to boost rates. At-large Councilor Kermit Staggers voting against sending the the measure forward, with the exception of electrical rates. The second (and final) reading of the proposal is set for Tuesday, May 3rd.