Public Infrastructure and Utilities Committee - May 13, 2026

The City of St. Louis Public Infrastructure and Utilities Committee met on May 13, 2026, to discuss several agenda items including acceptance of grant funding for water fluoridation equipment repair and replacement, and a detailed presentation on the water division's rate proposal and capital improvement projects. The committee approved a board bill to accept community water fluoridation funding. The water division presented an extensive revenue sufficiency study conducted by Black & Veatch, outlining the need for a significant rate increase—initially 40% in 2027 followed by smaller increases—to address aging infrastructure, rising operating costs, and a $442 million capital improvement program over six years. The study emphasized building operating and rate stabilization reserves to ensure long-term financial stability and avoid system failure. Public comments included support for transparent rate review and concerns about aging infrastructure. The committee acknowledged the critical need for investment in water system upgrades and the importance of balancing rate increases with customer affordability.