Hudson Public Utilities October 13, 2026

The Hudson Public Utilities meeting on October 13, 2026, approved the 2027 wastewater and water budgets. Wastewater budget highlights included $775,000 for principal debt payments, $65,000 in payments in lieu of taxes, $810,000 for Ellsworth costs, and $95,000 for the meter share. The water budget includes about $175,000 for backwash valve replacements and $120,000 for telemetry upgrades at the wells, as well as a $500,000 payment in lieu of taxes. Staff cited aging Windows 10 telemetry equipment and security concerns involving SCADA systems. A water rate study is underway; a full rate case may be considered in spring 2027, but no rate change was approved at this meeting.

The commission approved an amendment to T-Mobile’s Wisconsin Street Tower land lease, providing three additional six-year terms, monthly rent of $4,155.67 if renewed, and a 4% increase. Staff reported that 23 utility-owned lead service lines were identified for replacement in 2027 and will work with Cedar Corp to prepare an RFP; project costs were not yet available. The utility has applied for funding but plans to proceed without waiting for a funding decision. Payables were also approved, with no amounts specified in the transcript.