Sandusky city council voted to raise sewer and water rates at their meeting Monday evening, signaling a 3% increase for city residents. City Manager Dave Faber said the increase translates to $5.53 per quarter, $1.84 a month or six cents a day. The increase is the third since 2010 and first since 2015. Council members agreed they needed to increase revenue to maintain the city’s major infrastructure. The increases will generate just under $10,000 annually for three years.
In other council news, Faber reviewed the 2018-2019 budet with council, highlighting various departments with the city’s $5.2 million dollar budget. Sandusky’s taxable values have fallen from $75 million in 2008 to $53 million in 2018 and Faber pointed out 2013 was the low for residential homes where 100 homes sat vacant in the city. Among projects planned for 2018 is the M-46 pathway from Maple Valley/Dawson Streets west to the city limits near Real Video. The $720,000 project will be a non-motorized pathway to businesses on the west side of town.
Faber also said design plans are either done or being prepared for street improvements to North Sandusky and Dawson Streets. The two streets will be rebuilt, in anticipation of future road work on West Sanilac when North Sandusky and Dawson could become a detour route. Faber noted plans for North Sandusky are complete and ready to b done while Dawson Street designs are still being finished. The city also intends to do spot pavement repairs including sections of Maple Valley.
