Dartmouth CivicMeeting.net Weekly

Residents will see a significant jump in their utility bills after the Board of Public Works approved a 7.5% increase for water and a 16% increase for sewer rates, effective July 1. Officials stated the hikes are necessary to cover rising operational costs, new biosolids disposal fees, and major upcoming capital projects. This decision directly impacts the household budgets of all town water and sewer customers.

The annual fee for the town's trash and recycling program is increasing by $30, bringing the new total to $140 per household. The board also approved small increases to the cost of trash bags. This decision was made to prevent a future deficit in the program's fund due to rising costs and capital needs.

A major spending decision on the town's wastewater future has been temporarily paused. The board tabled a $627,200 contract for the Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan, opting to first seek an independent fee evaluation to ensure the cost is appropriate.