EMS, utility rate hikes advanced

McCOOK Neb. - There was no discussion before approving the consent agenda at the McCook City Council meeting on Monday.

The consent agenda included Resolution No. 2024-03, which proposes amending the rates for the ambulance service operated by the City of McCook. The rate increase is based on comparing the current government reimbursement rates to the current customary charge. To keep the reimbursement rates at their maximum level. The changes include:

Base rates increase for Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Life Support (ALS) services. Adjustments to mileage charges. Additional service fees. With Councilmen Jerry Calvin and Darcy Rambali absent, the remaining three council members that unanimously approved the first of three readings of Ordinance No. 2024-3076 and Ordinance No. 2024-3077.

Based on the data from the 2023 Water Enterprise Fund Cashflow Model prepared by Public Financial Management (PFM), City staff is recommending that the current water rate be increased by 8.5 % and sewer rate increase of 7.5%.

The rate increase provides funds to cover inflation, staff wages, and equipment and prepare for future capital improvements. Pat Fawver, Utility Director for the City of McCook, addressed the council, saying that the city had met with PFM last Monday to go over their recommendations again.

Fawver said, “They’re professionals in their field. They know what they’re doing. With the debt we’ll take on, I think that’s probably a good place to start.” 

City Manager Nate Schneider said they didn’t want to see an increase any more than anyone else.

“We have to prioritize water and wastewater; they are two of the most important things we do.”

The City Council again went into executive session to protect the public interest. This will be a strategy session concerning the real estate purchase for the Sports Complex.