by Mari Radtke
The Marcus Council on Monday March 11, approved the first reading of Ordinance 360. The ordinance modifies the city’s sewer and water rates. This ordinance modifies Section 92.02 of the Marcus Code of Ordinances, water rates. Once Ordinance 360 becomes effective, the base rate becomes $9.83. Each 1,000 gallons of water used per month after the base rate is $6.52.
Section 99.01 establishes Marcus’ sewer rate, which is tied to water usage. Should Ordinance 360 pass, the sewer rate establishes a base rate of $6.88. Each additional 1,000 gallons of water usage will incur $7.40 of sewer charges.
The first reading of this ordinance passed. Council will hold a second reading and can pass and waive a third reading or schedule a third reading before finalizing the passage of the rate increase. Each reading is an opportunity for pubic input to the city council.
The change in rates is in part to help with financing the proposed new water treatment facility. The City’s American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds that can be used for water projects was declared by Council to help defray costs for a water study and CDBG grant administration. A grant administrator has not been named. Requests for Proposal (RFP) will be issued in the near future. The CDBG, if awarded to Marcus, could be a big source of funds for the project.
The public hearing for the FY 2025 budget is set for Monday April 1 at 5:15pm. This special meeting is for the public to ask questions or provide comments about the city’s proposed property tax and planned budget for the next fiscal year beginning July 1, 2025.
Council approved requesting sealed bids to lease ag land around the lagoons. Council wants sheep kept on the leased ground. The bid notice will be published in “The Marcus News.”
The tax abatement for Schmillen Construction passed with Councilman Steve Schmillen abstaining. Doug Dreckman reported the public works activity through the month. Clerk Robin Harvey reported the audit brought 4 findings: as always, separation of duties was noted. The solid waste deficit is still on the books at $16,000. She said that deficit is going down. There was also a finding that the city doing business with a sitting councilperson. Harvey also was made aware through the audit process that the 941s that had been used were for the wrong year.