After several months of study, discussion and public hearings, the Fishers City Council gave final approval Monday night to a $5 per month increase in city sewer rates.  The increase will be effective on February 1, 2016.

This rate hike will only impact part of the city, the section located in Delaware Township, which receives its sewer service from the city.  Fall Creek Township residents are serviced by HSE Utilities.

HSE also utilizes city infrastructure to provide sewer service and will be faced with increased costs as a result of this rate increase.  The city is allowed under state law to raise sewer rates by action of the city council.  HSE must gain approval from state regulators before raising rates.
During Monday’s public hearing, arguments were made to change the sewer fee structure from a flat charge per month to one based on usage.  Council members voted to keep the fees a flat monthly amount.

City officials argued in favor of the increase, citing the fact that Fishers hasn’t seen an increase since 1997 and the higher fee is needed to build and maintain the city’s sewer infrastructure.