Staff told commissioners water and reclamation funds face rising costs and debt; billing data show the average residential user is closer to 3,000 gallons, and staff recommended keeping average customer impact under $10 while offsetting via higher top rates. The panel requested further modeling and an informational meeting on the water supply project.

Director Lorelei McPhee told the council that Meridian’s enterprise fund is healthy but the water subfund needs adjustments; staff recommended a gradual ‘9‑4‑3‑1’ plan that would shift more costs to fixed base charges over time, modeled to average a ~2.6% effect to customers and a one‑time average monthly change of about $1.66.

City utilities staff presented a 2026 draft budget proposing a 5% electric rate increase in July 2026, a 7% water increase in April 2026 and a 10% sewer increase in January 2026, while planning major plant upgrades and a $10 million short-term borrowing to fund capital projects.

City Manager Mike presented a recommended $314.8 million 2026 budget at the Oct. 6 council workshop, saying the total falls 12.3% from 2025 mainly because two large capital projects have advanced. The proposal keeps emphasis on public safety and capital maintenance while recommending some rate increases and a proposed elimination of the vendor fee.

Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has directed the Department of Public Utilities to conduct a comprehensive review of current gas and electric rates with the goal of reducing customer expenses, seeking opportunities to eliminate or decrease charges on utility bills and ensure responsible spending by utility companies. This effort builds upon her existing energy affordability initiatives, which include a proposed law that could generate over $13 billion in savings for residents and businesses through bill reductions, as well as an earlier initiative that aims to provide over $5.8 billion in savings over the next five years.

PPL Electric Utilities is proactively informing its customers about the possibility of rising electricity rates. The utility is currently engaged in discussions with the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) concerning a request to adjust rates. As a result of these ongoing discussions, PPL is recommending that customers take steps to understand and manage their energy consumption. Customers are encouraged to carefully examine their energy usage patterns and explore strategies to reduce energy use. Furthermore, PPL suggests taking advantage of available programs designed to promote energy conservation and efficiency. The details of the proposed rate adjustments are not specified in this announcement.

Delaware Residents Face Rising Energy Bills Amid Unseasonable Cold The unrelenting grip of winter has led to a spike in energy bills across Delaware, with customers reporting sharp increases of up to 80% on their utility bills. Delmarva Power, the primary electricity provider for the state, is now seeking increased gas rates and an alternative rate structure to stabilize the process. Delmarva's Request for Increased Gas Rates According to officials from Delmarva Power, the company has seen a significant increase in energy consumption due to unseasonably cold temperatures. In response, they are requesting an increase in gas rates to reflect this surge in demand. While this may seem counterintuitive, the company argues that it is necessary to maintain the reliability of their services. Alternative Rate Structure Proposed Delmarva Power has also proposed a new alternative rate structure that would bring more stability to the energy billing process. Under this plan, rates would be adjusted over three-year increments rather than on an annual or biennial basis. This change would allow for longer-term investments and consistency for customers, which Beal from Delmarva Power believes is essential for their business. Concerns Over PJM's Concerns PJM, the regional grid operator, has expressed concerns that states are pushing existing generation resources off the system before adequate replacement generation is online. This can lead to instability in the energy supply and increase prices for customers. Delaware, like many other states, is no exception, and its contribution to generating electricity is currently limited. Gov. Meyer's Demand Gov. Matt Meyer has been in talks with Delmarva Power regarding "demanding immediate bill rate adjustments" for customers affected by the sharp rate spikes this winter. The Governor wants to ensure that the energy billing process is fair and stable for those most impacted by the increased costs. Stability and Consistency Delmarva's proposed alternative rate structure aims to achieve greater stability and consistency in the energy billing process. By working over three-year increments, rates can be adjusted more predictably, allowing for longer-term investments and better planning for customers. PSC Consideration The Public Service Commission (PSC), which regulates Delmarva Power, has yet to consider the company's two requests for increased gas rates and an alternative rate structure. The PSC will play a crucial role in determining whether these changes are approved and implemented. Key Stakeholders Involved * Beal from Delmarva Power * Mario Giovannini from Delmarva Power as Director of Energy Acquisition * Gov. Matt Meyer * PJM representatives Main Issues at Hand 1. Unseasonably cold temperatures contributing to energy bill spikes. 2. Delmarva's requests for gas rate increase and alternative rate structure. 3. Concerns about the regional grid operator PJM's concerns about states pushing existing generation resources off the system. 4. Gov. Meyer's demand for immediate bill rate adjustments. 5. The need for stability and consistency in the energy billing process. Main Stakeholders The article highlights the key stakeholders involved, including Delmarva Power officials, the Governor of Delaware, PJM representatives, and other relevant parties.

Council voted 5–0 to mail a Proposition 218 notice and schedule an Aug. 11 public hearing after staff said Orange County landfill tipping fees will rise from about $44/ton to $67/ton starting July 1, 2026; average residential monthly bills are projected to increase from $27.97 to $32.71 in year one.

After a lengthy presentation on a proposed water and wastewater rate schedule, the council voted to continue the item for two weeks, citing missing CIP approvals and unanswered questions about previously repaid utility funds. Consultant Sanjay Gaur outlined a proposed 23% first-year water revenue increase and multi-year wastewater adjustments.

Jackson Thornton presented water and sewer cost‑of‑service studies showing FY25 revenue requirements and FY30 projections; the board adopted a five‑year rate design that phases modest customer‑charge and volumetric increases to reach near‑full cost recovery by FY2030.

City utility staff proposed a four‑year package of water, wastewater and stormwater rate adjustments aimed at meeting debt policy and funding a larger capital program; staff cited $30.7M annual debt service and $403.5M total utility debt and recommended staged increases with greater lifts for larger commercial meters.