City council approves sewer rate increase

Last week, the Trumann City Council approved a three percent sewer rate increase for Trumann Water Works customers. The three percent increase will apply to sewer rates only.

The increase, which will take effect July 1, is necessary due to improvements needed to the local sewer system which is over 50 years old.

The increase will be approximately seven cents per 1,000 gallons of water used per household. An individual will see his sewer bill go from approximately $2.40 to $2.47 per month. A four-person household will see its bill rise approximately .35 cents per month.

Trumann Water Works must purchase sewer curtains for the sewer lagoon. The baffle curtains will cost approximately $200,000 and includes installation costs. The city could have purchased the curtains for $163,000 a year ago, but did not have the funds readily available.

The city is considering a special bond issue to make water and sewer repairs and street repairs. The bond issue would be voted on in a special election later this year.

The council also discussed employee health benefits. The discussion was tabled to the July meeting, pending additional information.