In This Issue:
- July Update Shows Uptick in State Revenues
- MCES Rates and Charges Adopted by Metropolitan Council Environment Committee
- Water Efficiency Grant Program
July Update Shows Uptick in State Revenues
The July Revenue and Economic Update from the State Office of MN Management and Budget (MMB) show that net general fund revenue receipts for 2019 are estimated to be $636 million, or 2.8%, higher than what was projected in the February 2019 Budget and Economic Forecast. Tax receipts across all areas exceeded February Forecast projections. As with all monthly revenue updates, MMB notes that the results are preliminary and subject to change.
MCES Rates and Charges Adopted by Metropolitan Council Environment Committee
This week, the Metropolitan Council Environment Committee adopted 2020 Metropolitan Council Environmental Services (MCES) rates and charges. The Regional Wastewater Charge is set at 3.6%. The SAC (sewer availability charge) will remain at its current level and the Industrial Waste Strength Charge will increase by 4.5%. The Industrial Permit Fee will increase by 3.6%. These increases represent regional average increases. Individual city customer rates will vary depending on city flow activity. MCES held customer workshops and open houses in March and April where Council staff provided city officials and staff with information regarding MCES’ services, costs and projects and proposed 2020 wastewater rate changes. The full Metropolitan Council will consider these rates at its July 24th meeting.
To view the MCES presentation provided at the committee, click here.
Water Efficiency Grant Program
The Metropolitan Council has approved the process for a 2019-2020 Water Efficiency Grant Program. These funds come from an appropriation included in the Legacy Omnibus Bill passed by the Legislature this year, and total $750,000 for the next two years. The purpose of these funds is to encourage municipalities in the metropolitan area to implement measures to reduce water demand. Grants will range from $2,000 to $50,000 and a 25% local match is required. Funds can be used to support the purchase and installation of products that reduce water use and can include EPA WaterSense-labeled toilets and irrigation controllers, Energy Star-rated washing machines and irrigation audits and repairs.
Criteria include the following:
- Municipalities supplied 100% with groundwater
- Municipalities with identified water supply issues in Master Water Supply Plan Community Profiles or Local Water Supply Plans
- A high ratio of peak monthly water uses compared to winter monthly use
- Residential per capita water use
- The order in which applications are received and until grant funds are committed
There will be a 10-week application period starting this month and going into September. Application evaluations will be conducted in October and November, with final selection taking place in December.
Metro Cities staff will provide more information on this application process when it is available.
To view the presentation provided to the committee, click here. Please contact Steven Huser with any questions, at 651-215-4003, or [email protected].