The Houston City Council unanimously approved drafting an ordinance for a five-year utility rate increase plan through 2030.
The plan includes an annual three percent hike for electric and water rates and two percent for wastewater rates.
The decision was based on a Nov. 25 utilities committee meeting and a recent rate study conducted by Toth and Associates of Springfield. Over the next five years, the study recommended electric rate increases of 4.3%, 2.6%, 2.9%, 2.9% and 2.9%, totaling 15.6%, compared with the 15% total the city plans to move forward with.
“I would rather go with the report,” said Don Romines, Ward III alderman. “I feel like they’re experts in the field. However, I’ll compromise.”
An ordinance formalizing the plan will be drafted to be approved at a later meeting.
GOOD NEIGHBOR AWARD
Jeff Gettys, Texas County MU Extension president, presented a plaque to council members for placing first among small cities in this year’s “Missouri Good Neighbor Week” competition.
In choosing Houston for the statewide award, judges cited the community’s “true town effort” and its “Rose for a Neighbor” campaign, which saw 3,400 roses distributed throughout the area in September.
MEETING ITEMS
- John Sheehan, Houston citizen, expressed concerns about a lack of accountability and transparency on several city projects during public comments.
- Jeremy St. John, public grounds, stated his desire to continue working four, 10-hour days rather than moving forward with the change to five, eight-hour days for the department.
- Larry Tyrrell, the recently hired city attorney, was introduced.
- Members approved $148,310 in Community Improvement District (CID) cost certifications for hospital surgery center work and insurance.
- A certificate of deposit (CD) with a value of about $110,000 will be renewed at West Plains Bank for a 12-month, 3.65% interest rate term.
- A $100 Christmas supplemental pay was approved for all employees.
- All non-bargaining unit city employees will receive a 3% raise in 2026.
- Ward II Alderwoman Ann Tottingham stated that those who reach out to the city or speak at council meetings deserve a response. She has brought up the issue three times during recent meetings.
- Kelley mentioned working on getting a new fence at the golf course to stop cattle from getting on the course.
The meeting adjourned at 6:31 p.m.