Leavenworth increases development fees to cover rising utility costs

Leavenworth will significantly raise development fees for water, sewer, and stormwater connections, implementing phased increases of 20% in 2026 and 2027, followed by a 10% increase in 2028. These changes aim to close a $40 million gap identified in a 2024 Utility Rate Study, which highlighted the need for updated utility rates to address aging infrastructure and increased capacity. Councilmember Anne Hessburg pointed out that the city has not raised rates since 2012, leading to financial losses. Public Works Director Andi Zontek-Backstrom proposed a more aggressive increase plan to ensure the charges reflect the actual costs of new connections. Resident Ron Duncan advocated for immediate implementation, warning that delays would burden current ratepayers further.

Council members expressed concerns about the steep hikes but acknowledged the necessity of addressing the funding gap. Ultimately, the council unanimously approved the fee increases during its meeting on Oct. 14. This decision marks a critical step toward sustainable utility management and infrastructure planning.