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6. 2026 Proposed Utility Rates <br />Public Works Director Jesse Freihammer presented the 2026 utility rates, starting <br />with the water fund. He indicated that a 5.5 percent increase from 2025 to 2028 is <br />recommended to cover costs, including a substantial increase from St. Paul <br />Regional Water Services. The sanitary sewer fund was proposed to increase by 2.2 <br />percent to cover expenses, with a 1.06 percent increase from the Met Council, while <br />the storm sewer fund remains unchanged. The environmental fund (recycling) was <br />proposed to increase by 3 percent due to a new contract with Waste Management. <br />Mr. Freihammer explained the breakdown of costs for each fund, including <br />maintenance, staff, and administrative expenses. The storm sewer fund covers costs <br />related to street sweeping, catch basins, and drainage. The environmental fund <br />mainly covers recycling operations and staff time for cleanup events. The overall <br />average increase for all rates for a typical Roseville home would be 3.44 percent, <br />which equals $28.83 annually. <br />Chair Ficek and Vice -Chair Hodder discussed the possibility of using the storm <br />sewer service fee for improvements at the leaf center. <br />Mr. Freihammer explained the current funding structure and the possible effects of <br />raising rates. The suggestion was made to consider potential increases in the 2027 <br />rates due to possible higher costs for the leaf center. <br />The importance of future discussions and data collection to identify the best course <br />of action was highlighted. <br />Motion <br />Member Fergus moved, Member Cicha seconded, to recommend that the City <br />Council approve the 2026 utility rate. <br />Ayes: 5 <br />Nays: 0 <br />Motion carried. <br />The commission discussed the recommendation to consider the storm sewer service <br />fee for potential improvements at the leaf center, but it was not officially voted on. <br />Commission Direction on Member -Initiated Agenda Items <br />Public Works Director Jesse Freihammer outlined the agenda for upcoming <br />meetings, including the 2026 Public Works Plan and a noise ordinance update. <br />The significance of community engagement and the possibility of organizing atour <br />of the St. Paul water plant were mentioned. <br />Page 4 of 5 <br />