Flemington City Council Passes Utility Rate Stabilization Ordinance to Limit Residential Increases

The Flemington City Council approved the Utility Rate Stabilization Ordinance on July 7 by a 5-2 vote, setting a 1 percent annual cap on increases to residential water and sewer charges through June 2027.

The measure responds to the city finance department's April 2026 projection that operating costs for the utility would rise 4.2 percent due to higher energy prices and maintenance contracts. Council members reviewed the department's five-year forecast before the final vote.

Effects on Household Expenses

Under the ordinance, an average single-family home that currently pays $85 per month for combined water and sewer service will see the bill rise by no more than 85 cents monthly. Apartment residents billed through property management will receive the same percentage limit when owners pass through costs. The cap covers both owner-occupied and rental properties within city limits.

City budget documents show that utility charges represent 2.8 percent of median household income in Flemington. The 1 percent limit is projected to reduce the annual outlay by $10 to $12 per household compared with the previously planned 3 percent adjustment. Local advocates note that the change affects routine expenses such as laundry, lawn watering and dishwashing for families on fixed incomes.

Implementation Timeline

The ordinance takes effect with the August billing cycle. The utility will send notices to all accounts by July 25 explaining the new rate table. The city manager's office will deliver a compliance report to the council in January 2027 that includes actual revenue collections and any adjustments needed for emergency repairs.

Staff will also update the online bill calculator on the municipal website to reflect the capped rates before the first statements are mailed. The next full rate review is scheduled for spring 2027 as part of the regular budget process.