sewer

Reported an incident where city work crews cut a solid drain pipe and replaced it with plastic pipe on Allison Avenue.

Expressed concern that water and sewer rate increases will place an undue financial burden on households.

Shared personal hardships as a senior living on a fixed pension and echoed calls to levy extra utility fees on new, expensive housing developments instead of longtime seniors.

Questioned whether delinquent partner accounts had been collected and criticized council for not adequately representing everyday residents on utility rate hikes.

Suggested that the city adopt a progressive rate structure that charges higher rates to newer, expensive housing developments rather than imposing a flat fee on seniors in older, lower-valued homes.

Speaking for Strong Towns Lorain, acknowledged the utility fund deficit but urged the city to reject an immediate jump to $15, recommending a phased schedule tied to performance reviews.

Supported the sewer rate ordinance returning fixed charges to 2019 levels to shore up fund balances, but asked council to extend affordability protections to fixed fees.

Representing a property management company, she noted that most tenants pay their water bills and supported allowing tenants to place utility deposits and accounts in their own names.

Expressed union concerns regarding the unannounced addition of EPA license requirements for sewer crew leaders, which could bypass senior candidates.