Resolution - Commission — File 25-1678

Requesting that the Administration cooperate with this Council to establish a Water and Sewer Rate Commission to establish water and sewer rates and to oversee abatements, as is common in other Massachusetts cities. WHEREAS: In the coming years the City of Somerville is required to construct an enormous amount of infrastructure to ensure the safety and reliability of our water, sewer, and stormwater systems, which will largely be financed via the Water and Sewer Enterprise; and WHEREAS: The setting and approval of water and sewer rates requires technical and professional skill to carefully balance infrastructure needs of the City with the necessity to ensure affordability to residents; and WHEREAS: Massachusetts General Law allows for water and sewer rates to be set by a Commission comprised of subject matter experts appointed by the Executive and approved by the Legislative Body; and WHEREAS: Such a Commission would have dedicated time and expertise to carefully review proposed changes to Water and Sewer Rates; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: That the Administration cooperate with this Council to establish an appointed Water and Sewer Commission, by Ordinance and Administrative Code.