Ayer Rate Review Committee reaches initial consensus on FY 2027 water, sewer rates.
Ayer Rate Review Committee reaches initial consensus on FY 2027 utility rates. The committee backed a 3 percent water increase paired with $350,000 in retained earnings, a 5 percent sewer increase using $50,000 in retained earnings, and no stormwater rate increase. Finance Manager Barbara Tierney
Rate Review Committee · Meeting of January 27, 2026
Ayer Rate Review Committee reaches initial consensus on FY 2027 utility rates. The committee backed a 3 percent water increase paired with $350,000 in retained earnings, a 5 percent sewer increase using $50,000 in retained earnings, and no stormwater rate increase. Finance Manager Barbara Tierney noted the 3 percent water approach would generate an estimated $48,000 surplus and incrementally move toward the consultant-recommended 5 percent annual target.
Water and Sewer Superintendent Kimberly Abraham highlighted that Ayer's rates rank low nationally. The committee also approved fee increases including a new 2-inch water connection fee at $2,000 and water re-test fee hike from $75 to $100. A formal vote is scheduled for February 10.
In the full story:
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Source: the Rate Review Committee meeting of January 27, 2026, compiled from the official minutes.
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