WATER & SEWER RATES

PROPOSED STRATEGIES REVIEWED

On Monday, December 9, 2024, the City Commission will hear a two-part presentation to address questions raised during the 2024/25 Budget hearing regarding water and sewer rates. This presentation will provide an overview of current processes, highlight opportunities for improvement, and propose strategies for future adjustments.

Part I: Review of Rates

This segment will focus on how water and sewer rates are calculated, examining their financial and operational implications. Key topics include:

• Current Rate Structure: Understanding the base fee, metered usage, and rate history.
• 2021 Rate Study Findings: Insights from comparisons with 55 Michigan municipalities, including a statewide analysis of similar communities.
• Proposed Changes: Transitioning to a ready-to-serve fee model to better reflect operational costs and enhance sustainability.

Part II: Metering and Policies

This segment will explore updates to technology and practices aimed at improving efficiency and service delivery. Highlights include:

• Year-Round Irrigation Billing: Proposals to adjust irrigation billing practices for greater flexibility.
• Metering Upgrades: Implementation of Badger metering technology with features like early leak detection and customer access via the EyeOnWater portal.
• Policy Updates: Enhancements to collection processes, including shut-off protocols and tax lien procedures.

Currently, water and sewer rates include a base fee that covers up to 6 hundred cubic feet (CCF) of usage—approximately 4,500 gallons of water. Any additional usage beyond the base allowance is billed at a flat rate per CCF. For example, a typical household using 6 CCF would pay the base fee alone, while those exceeding this amount incur additional charges, reflecting their actual consumption.

As part of this effort, it is important to note that water and sewer operations are managed as an enterprise fund—a self-sustaining financial structure in which user fees, rather than general taxes, cover operational and infrastructure costs. This ensures that the systems are maintained and upgraded without relying on broader municipal funds.

The presentation will also outline next steps, including finalizing updated rates and implementing policy adjustments for the 2025/26 budget to support continued efficiency and reliability in service delivery.

OWN A PIECE OF CITY HISTORY

FORMER CITY PARK SIGNS UP FOR AUCTION

The City is giving residents and enthusiasts a unique opportunity to own a piece of local history. Former signage from the City's parks is now up for auction. These signs, which once marked community spaces, are not just functional items but also nostalgic symbols of the City. Whether you're a collector, a fan of the City's heritage, or looking for a distinctive decor piece, these signs are a perfect way to commemorate your love for the City!

New Park Signage

This year, a brand-new signage system was installed across the City’s 30+ parks. The diverse range of signage types, tailored in size and design to complement each park's unique landscape include park identification monuments, information kiosks, guide signs, trail markers, and regulatory markers. The consistency of the new package allows the Parks and Recreation Division to have a level of cohesion to better educate the public on park rules, wayfinding information, and environmental education.

Auction Details

The park signage auction is now live and open for bidding until December 10, 2024.

HICKORY HILLS CONDITIONS UPDATE

The City looks forward to welcoming you to Hickory Hills this season.

Alpine: The snow is a welcome sight! However, to build an appropriate base, snowmaking activities will continue as temperatures permit. An opening date has not been determined at this time.

Nordic: Volunteers have been rolling fresh snow at the Meadows in the early hours to pack down drifting and new snow. The goal is to start setting tracks soon, once all packing is complete. Snowmaking equipment remains in use at Hickory Hills, and we kindly ask that the area be avoided until further notice.



Thanks to our team at Hickory and our volunteer groomers who make the magic happen during the winter season!

HICKORY HILLS SEASON PASSES

The City is gearing up for the winter season at Hickory Hills! Season passes are on sale now! Alpine season pass holders may also use Nordic trails at no additional charge.

The City's new software offers more options to make your adventurous days at Hickory easier than ever. Waivers can be completed ahead of time, funds can be added to pass holder accounts for use on anything at Hickory (think snacks and merch!), and day passes can now be purchased online from the comfort of home.

Hickory Purchase Portal

HICKORY HILLS GIFT CARDS AND MERCH

Give the gift of ADVENTURE!

Hickory Hills Gift Cards make the perfect gift! Whether it's a contribution toward a season pass, a few fun-filled days on the hill, or extra dollars for slope snacks, this gift will have you feeling great about your gift-giving skills. And it's easy!

Purchase a Gift Card

While the slopes eagerly await their time to shine, you can already embrace the Hickory Hills spirit with our latest collection of hoodies, tees, and hats! They're perfect for staying cozy, stylish, and repping your favorite local destination all winter long.



These make great gifts for loved ones—or treat yourself!

See something you like? Call (231) 947-8566 to make your purchase today and get ready to hit the slopes in style!

SNOW SHOVELING TIPS

The Streets Division crew is working tirelessly in 24/7 shifts to clear safety routes, streets, and sidewalks, ensuring everyone can move safely this winter.

Sidewalk Safety

We remind residents and businesses that keeping sidewalks clear of snow and ice is not only essential for safety and accessibility but also a responsibility required by ordinance. If you’re able, consider lending a hand to a neighbor who may need help clearing their sidewalk, ensuring everyone in the community can get around safely.

Snow Removal Reminder for Residents, Businesses, and Contractors

When clearing snow with a shovel, plow, or snowblower, please avoid pushing or placing snow into the street or alley. This creates unnecessary snow piles, increases the workload for City crews, and can result in large accumulations being pushed into other areas, potentially causing safety hazards. Instead, snow should be placed on the tree lawn, your personal property, or, for those in the downtown area, around street trees.

Let’s work together to keep our community walkable, welcoming, and safe for everyone this winter!

WINTER IS HERE

DON'T CROWD THE PLOW

As snow blankets the City, our hardworking crews are out in full force to keep the roads clear and safe. However, plow drivers need space to do their job effectively.

Follow these tips to stay safe and ensure efficient snow removal this winter.

• Slow down and allow at least 6 to 10 car lengths between your vehicle and the snowplow

• Do not pass! If you cannot see an operator, the operator cannot see you

• Snowplows cause snow clouds that reduce visibility and can conceal other vehicles and hazards

• Move over for stopped snowplows, they are considered authorized vehicles

• Do not follow a plow or stop too closely

ASK THE CITY

THIS WEEK'S FEATURED ANSWER

“Ask the City” allows residents to submit questions to City staff and receive personalized video responses. Once a resident’s question is answered, they will be notified via email, ensuring quick and clear communication. This platform gives every community member a direct line to City employees, creating an open forum for dialogue and making it easier than ever to engage with the City.

This program will be implemented as a three-month pilot project, after which its effectiveness will be evaluated to determine its continuation based on community interest. Residents are encouraged to take part in the conversation and explore the new platform. Additionally, a button labeled “Ask the City” on the City’s homepage will link directly to the platform. 

How is plowing prioritized in the City and when will my sidewalks be plowed?

JOIN THE TEAM 

SEASONAL POSITIONS

IN THE COMMUNITY

SANTA CAME TO TOWN!

Thank you to the Department of Public Services, Traverse City Police Department, and to members of the Traverse City Fire Department for participating in the Downtown Light Parade!