Water tabled: City Council puts a brief pause on water/sewer increases

QUINCY — The Quincy City Council wants more time to assess an increase in residential and business water rates.

In a quick meeting, aldermen tabled a vote on the ordinance and increase water and sewer rates.

Alderman Patty Maples (D-6th Ward) made the motion to table and it passed by a voice vote as Mayor Mike Troup determined the ayes had it.

The City of Quincy is looking at a flat increase in the residential water rates of $9 a month, which is an increase of more than 50 percent, as a way to offset the rising costs of associated with making the water from the Mississippi River consumable.

The city’s Utilities Committee heard the proposal last month and acknowledged the need for an increase, but did not pass on any specific recommendation how to proceed. The proposed increases are based on the size of the water meter that a customer uses.

In other action, Aldermen:

• Tabled a special permit request for a development at 2600 North 12th Street to obtain a liquor license in order to have video gaming terminals.
• Approved buying 2,720 tons of road salt from Compass Minerals America in the amount of $257,529.
• Gave authority to the Quincy Police Department to renew partnership agreements with the Quincy Housing Authority, the West Central Illinois Case Coordination Unit and Quincy Public Schools.
• Tabled an agreement with Anders Technology to provide $50,000 in IT management/consulting services to the City.