Mixed impact on Seneca ratepayers

In last night’s budget workshop, Scott Moulder announced that, after further consultation with department heads, he no longer is recommending an increase in property tax rates in 2020-21.  However, a small water rate increase appears to be in the offing.  The recommendation is that the mayor and council add $1 dollar to a water customer’s bill, for both inside and outside city users.  According to Josh Riches, city finance director, the plan is for Seneca to increase by 18 cents the cost of water per thousand gallon use.  Much of last night’s budget presentation focused on the impact to revenues and spending that COVID-19 and the April 13 tornado are taking.  Riches estimates the city will spend $10 million to recover from the tornado damage.