HomeMy WebLinkAbout24. 17-292 JUNE 13, 2017 17-292 RESOLUTION
(CARRIED 7-0 LOST LAID OVER WITHDRAWN )
PURPOSE: AUTHORIZE STAFF TO COMPLETE AND FILE A WATER RATE
INCREASE APPLICATION WITH THE PUBLIC SERVICE
COMMISSION OF WISCONSIN
INITIATED BY: CITY ADMINISTRATION
BE IT RESOLVED that the proper City Officials are authorized and directed to
complete a water rate increase application, as prescribed by the Public Service
Commission of Wisconsin, and submit such application to the same.
TO: Honorable Mayor and Members of the Common Council
FROM: Trena Larson, Finance Director
DATE: June 6, 2017
RE: File water rate increase with Public Service Commission (PSC) of Wisconsin
BACKGROUND: Per the direction of the Common Council staff has been directed to
annually evaluate our utility rates to ensure we have systematic planning and control within
the existing rates structures. It is imperative the Water Utility begins the application process
immediately, as the process is complex and requires a comprehensive review by the PSC.
It is anticipated that the Water Utility will need a rate increase to ensure adequate funding is
available for daily operations and maintaining existing and new infrastructure. In addition,
the Water Utility has several mandates and requirements to maintain compliance with
multiple State and Federal agencies, and to ensure the safety and reliability of this utility
service.
Staff requests authorization to complete and file a water rate increase application with the
Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC). The PSC regulates all water utilities in
Wisconsin.
ANALYSIS: The cash flow analysis presented at the 2017 Budget Workshop showed a need
for approximately a 15% increase. The projected increase is anticipated to be needed due to
the following reasons:
• Large Capital Improvement Programs in 2016 and beyond with regard to water
infrastructure projects
• Funds needed to cover debt payments (i.e. Debt Coverage)
• Decrease in usage from 2013 to the present
• Increase in expenses from 2013 to the present.
For the Calendar year 2017 there is not a planned water rate increase, as it is anticipated the
proposed application will take approximately six months to process through the PSC to
provide sufficient time for an extensive review and analysis.
Finance Director, Trena Larson
City Hall, 21.5 Church Avenue P.O. Box 11.30 Oshkosh, WI 54903-11.30 http://www.ci.oshkosh.wi.us
FISCAL IMPACT: At the 2017 CIP Budget workshop the 10 year Cash Flow Analysis
estimated a 15% rate increase would be needed in the Water Utility. It is estimated this
proposed increase would raise approximately $2,183,175.
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends that Council pass this resolution.
Respectfully Submitted,
Jac na ,ea."an
Trena Larson
Finance Director
Approved:
Mark Rohloff
City Manager