Michigan City Common Council Workshop - Sanitary Rate Increase July 28, 2026

The Michigan City Common Council held a workshop on July 28, 2026, to discuss a proposed sanitary sewer rate increase and system development charges. The workshop focused on the need for a rate adjustment after 14 years without an increase, driven by aging infrastructure, inflation, and the necessity to fund capital improvement projects and engineering studies. The council reviewed a phased rate increase plan intended to generate approximately $3.8 million over two years to support operations, depreciation, working capital, and to enable bonding for a $15 million capital improvement plan. The plan includes new system development charges to ensure growth pays for growth, with examples from other municipalities cited. Detailed discussions covered the wastewater treatment process, infrastructure challenges, and the importance of transparent, data-driven management and accountability. The council emphasized the need for regular rate reviews every two years and addressed public concerns about billing impacts and fairness across residential, commercial, and industrial users. The workshop concluded with plans for continued public engagement and a final rate increase hearing scheduled for mid-August.