Conroe city officials have dropped a $30 flat water fee for apartment residents, replacing it with a percentage-based rate. The decision, prompted by resident concerns, will charge apartment dwellers 90% of the residential rate with a per-unit volumetric fee.
The Conroe City Council has resolved to replace the controversial $30 water charge applicable to apartment residents with a fee structure based on a percentage. After residents raised concerns that the initial fee unduly targeted apartment dwellers, this modification was implemented.
The $30 fee was authorized by the council in August and is scheduled to be implemented on October 1. Nevertheless, city officials reevaluated the decision in response to community criticism. During the council meeting on Wednesday, Collin Boothe, the assistant city administrator and finance director, introduced a novel proposal. The revised proposal will impose a volumetric charge on the number of units and charge apartment residents 90% of the residential rate.
"This adjustment aims to create a fairer system for all residents while addressing the city's water infrastructure needs," Boothe emphasized.
The council's decision indicates the ongoing endeavors to address the increasing water requirements of Conroe as the city continues to expand. Implementing a usage-based fee in Conroe could generate substantial revenue to fund water system enhancements, as officials estimate that the city has approximately 18,000 apartment units.
The significance of developing a comprehensive plan that encompasses apartment complexes, hospitals, and hotels was underscored by council members. Councilman Howard Wood stated, "To guarantee the efficient management of our water resources, we must evaluate all forms of development."
The council intends to formalize the new fee structure in the upcoming weeks and implement it in conjunction with other water management initiatives.
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