The Salem City Council Monday night will discuss the need to raise water rates to cover current expenses and review the $1.00 per residence per month garbage surcharge.
City Manager Rex Barbee says the council has asked to review water rates this month. He says the last rate increase has helped to limit the loss from operations, but operating costs continue to rise as chemical costs go up. In addition, Barbee says they continue to see the need to update or replace equipment at the water plant and the raising of the rate would help to offset that expense.
The council will also discuss the $1.00 per residence per month garbage surcharge. While fuel costs that resulted in the surcharge have come down some in recent months, they are forecasts to increase again before the summer months arrive. Barbee notes with the surcharge, the contract rate with DBS Disposal is less than other area trash services.
There will be a ceremonial swearing in of Daniel Bosomworth as the newly appointed Sergeant for the Salem Police Department. The position has been authorized, but not used before. It will allow for current Sergeant Tyler Rose to move into a new sergeant position in the detective division.
A resolution is on the agenda to support the Tax Increment Financing tool in Illinois.
New canine officer Grant Green will make a presentation to the council with his K-9 Civka.
The council will be asked to extend a contract for two years with Metro-Ag for transportation and disposal of residuals from the wastewater and water treatment plants. The current .051 cents per gallon charge will increase to .06 cents per gallon of sludge.
The meeting begins at six Monday night at Salem City Hall.
