Stormwater utilities notoriously face all sorts of
controversies about money—such as whether, legally, they are entitled to collect
any—and political challenges from opponents. The utility in one Indiana city is
facing a money issue of a slightly different sort this week.
Although the city council of New
Albany had voted not to give raises to any city employees, the stormwater board
chairman gave raises to three utility employees anyway, maintaining that the
stormwater utility operates separately from the city. The mayor, on the advice
of the city attorney, approved the raises.
One council member was quoted as
saying ““Maybe we need to look at lowering their rate, if they have all this
extra money.” You can read the full story here.
If your city has a utility—or if
you’re thinking of starting one—what’s the most controversial aspect you’ve
experienced or anticipate?