The cost of water rates for Northport residents is projected to increase by 20% between the years 2025 and 2028, according to a recent Utilities Financial Solutions study presented to the Northport Village Council on Thursday, Sept. 12. In 2029, the water rate is projected to increase by 10%.
The increase of rates over the next five years is anticipated to help cover bond debts for projected large capital improvement projects like the Shabwasung project in 2026 to replace 2,000 feet of main, two hydrants, and 30 service lines for a total of $430,000. In 2029, another large capital project, the extension of Mill Street, is estimated to cost $800,000. Bond issuances will help to support those capital projects.
Village council trustees heard the results from the water cost of service study at its regular meeting, presented by Dawn Lund, Utility Financial Solutions vicepresident. The international consulting firm focuses on cost of service studies, financial plans, and rate designs for utilities across the country. The firm has also assisted the Northport Leelanau Township Utilities Authority (NLTUA) with its own utility study in the past year. No action was taken by the council at the meeting to give the public more time to review the study, but trustees plan to take a look at the information again in October.
