Town Council 04-21-2020 - Laserfiche WebLink

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concern with what would affect her at an almost 50% increase. She appreciated Town Attorney Lee's responsiveness to the questions she asked before coming before the council, and requested an explanation of what she perceived rather large increase would be used for. Council President Williams then read a timeline that he had put together of the Southside Sewer project. Attached Exhibit A. Councilman Tom Warthen took the time to explain to Ms. Owens the details of the project. Scott Miller from Baker Tilly then went over some of the things that would need to be replaced whether or not the entire improvement project was being conducted. Attorney Lee read a letter that Ms. Owens had submitted that raised the question as to"why the rate increase hearing was called during the COVID-19 emergency. In addition to the concerns she addressed in person. George Ballard correspondence expressed frustration with the lack of notice about the project, or the rate increase, to those outside the town, as well as the lack of detailed information in the notice of the public hearing. Councilman Stanley acknowledged that there is room for improvement on the letters of notification that were sent. Town Attorney read and entered into the record the following statements received in writing from citizens: Patty Powell submitted a written statement expressing concern over potentially adopting the price hike amid the COVID-19 emergency that is causing many financial hardships. Terry Arthur submitted a written statement expressing concerns over having the public hearing during a stay at home order. He asked the question if this rate hike applied to the residents of Rolling Vista, which the council said it does not as Rolling Vista is not serviced by The Town of Mooresville's sewer system. Trash pick-up was also addressed as the trash pick-up in town is all private service. Mr. Arthur also asked several questions pertaining to the use of funds for the rate increase. Scott Miller with Baker Tilly explained how the rate increases were calculated, by identifying revenue requirements currently, and adding the cost of the projects, compare that to the current revenue, and apply that percentage to the rate change. The rate increase will provide approximately $1,000,000 additional annually to cover the costs he mentioned. The rates in Mooresville after the increase are well in line with the averages of surrounding communities. Attorney Lee read his response to Terry Arthur for the record. Debra Mason submitted a written statement expressing concerns about the timing of the public hearing, and rate increase during the COVID -19 emergency. Council President Williams mentioned that if the council had waited until a later date to hold the hearing it the rate increase very likely would have taken affect prior to February of 2021 due to changes that delaying this process would cause. Councilman Warthen acknowledged the fact that the letters that were sent out to the public lacked the date which the rate increase would take effect. Matthew and Monique McClain submitted a written statement expressing their concerns about the timing of the public hearing, and rate increase during the COVID -19 emergency, and