During the May meeting, Saint Joseph City leaders delved into the pressing issue of potentially raising the fees for water taps. City Manager Joan Nelson shed light on the fact that the city has been operating at a loss in this area for quite some time. Despite charging $400 for a water tap within city limits and $500 for those outside, the city incurs a substantial cost of $682 per water tap, exclusive of labor expenses.
Recognizing the financial strain this has placed on the city, members of the city council reached a consensus to initiate a comprehensive local cost analysis. This study aims to ascertain the prevailing costs in neighboring municipalities and water districts, providing valuable insights for future decision-making. By delving into these comparative figures, Saint Joseph City can better position itself to address the financial challenges associated with water taps.