Public Hearing — Wednesday, January 14, 2026 — 7:30 p.m.

Moyle Community Center

Concerning the raising of water rates

Proposed Water Rate Update – Public Hearing Information

The City of Clifton is reviewing its water rates to ensure the water system can continue to operate safely, reliably, and sustainably for the community.

Water system costs include daily operation and maintenance, required bond payments, staffing, and long-term system improvements. Current annual expenses are approximately $92,000, while future projected costs are closer to $175,000 per year. Because of this, the city is considering adjustments to water rates.

No final decision has been made. A public hearing will be held to share information and gather community input.

How Water Rates Work

Water bills are made up of two parts:

Base Charge – Covers fixed costs such as system operations, staffing, and loan payments.
Usage Charge – Based on how much water a customer uses.

When setting rates, the City must balance two goals:

·  Keeping rates fair for low-use customers

·  Making sure enough revenue is collected to cover required expenses, even during low-use months

Rate Options Being Reviewed

The City’s engineer analyzed historical water use data and modeled several possible rate structures. Each option is designed to raise enough revenue to meet the City’s water system needs.

Current Rate Structure (For Comparison)

·  Base Volume: 40,000 gallons

·  Base Rate: $50.90

·  Usage Rate: $1.90 per 1,000 gallons

·  Estimated Annual Revenue: $111,304

Option A

·  Base Volume: 40,000 gallons

·  Base Rate: $80.00

·  Usage Rate: $2.50 per 1,000 gallons

·  Estimated Annual Revenue: $175,000

Option B

·  Base Volume: 30,000 gallons

·  Base Rate: $75.00

·  Usage Rate: $3.00 per 1,000 gallons

·  Estimated Annual Revenue: $175,000

Option C

·  Base Volume: 20,000 gallons

·  Base Rate: $60.00

·  Usage Rate: $3.50 per 1,000 gallons

·  Estimated Annual Revenue: $175,000

Each option balances base charges and usage charge differently. Lower base volumes shift more cost to higher water users, while higher base charges provide more stable funding for the city.

Fairness & Financial Stability

A system with no base charge and only usage fees would be the most equitable for low-use customers. However, the City must also ensure it collects enough revenue each year to cover loan payments and essential operations.

The proposed rate options are designed to balance fairness with financial responsibility.

For the document about this public hearing, click here.

Contact

City Clerk: Eve Waite

(208) 339-8500
cliftoncity@gmail.com