Lake View residents will see an increase to their utility bills for sewer, water, and electricity, as the city adjusts for inflation and upcoming projects to provide the highest quality services to the community. In 2024, rates were increased per recommendations with Piper Sandler and DGR after studies were conducted, comparing Lake View’s rates to neighboring communities and a way to help build up reserves. City Administrator Jalonna Ehler says the 2024 increases were the first implemented since 2015.
The well project will be the largest, with an estimated $1.5 million expense just for the first phase.
Water rates will increase to a base pay of $32.10 for the first 2,000 gallons used, then $7.33 per 1,000 gallons used after that with a $1.95 meter charge. Residents outside of city limits will be billed $48.15 for 2,000 gallons, then $11 for every 1,000 gallons following. Wastewater will have a base pay of $43.21 for the minimum of 2,00 gallons, and each 1,000 gallons utilized following that requirement will be at a rate of $11.85. Electric rates for residents will increase to $11.04 for the first 1,000 KWH, then $8.38 for each consecutive 1,000 KWH. Rural residents will be charged a base rate of $42, plus 13.12 for the first 2,000 KWH and $8.02 for every 1,000 KWH after. While Ehler understands increases are not what residents look forward too, she says they are necessary to make sure Lake View remains up to code with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) standards set for drinking water quality.
During the March 16 city council meeting, council members approved the resolution of the first reading, waiving the second and third reading and adopting the ordinance that will go into effect for resident’s June utility bill which will be paid in July.
