Boonville City Council Debates Potential Water Rate Hike

Proposed increases would raise minimum monthly charges and per-gallon rates for residents

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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The Boonville City Council held the first reading of an ordinance to amend water and wastewater rates in the city, which would take effect on April 1st if approved. The new rates include higher minimum monthly charges based on meter size as well as increased per-gallon rates for higher water usage. Several residents voiced opposition to the proposed increases during the council meeting, while some council members argued the hikes may be necessary to cover potential future expenses.

Why it matters

Water and sewer rate increases can have a significant impact on household budgets, especially for lower-income residents. The council's decision will determine how much more Boonville residents will pay for essential utilities going forward.

The details

The proposed water service rates include minimum monthly charges ranging from $36.05 for the smallest meters up to $871.60 for the largest 6-inch meters, for the first 1,000 gallons of water. Additional usage would be charged at $9.95 per 1,000 gallons for the next 9,000 gallons, $7.75 per 1,000 for the next 40,000 gallons, and $7.12 per 1,000 beyond that. Wastewater sewer rates would include a $27.20 per-meter monthly charge plus $10.17 per 1,000 gallons of metered wastewater. Residents outside the city limits would pay double the regular rates.

  • The first reading of the ordinance was held on March 2, 2026.
  • The second reading and official vote will take place on March 16, 2026.
  • The new rates, if approved, would take effect on April 1, 2026.

The players

Boonville City Council

The governing body of the City of Boonville, Missouri, responsible for approving changes to municipal water and sewer rates.

Boonville Residents

Local citizens who would be impacted by the proposed water and sewer rate increases, some of whom voiced opposition during the council meeting.

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What’s next

The Boonville City Council will hold a second reading and vote on the proposed water and sewer rate increases during their next meeting on March 16, 2026.

The takeaway

The city's decision on water and sewer rates will have a direct impact on household budgets in Boonville, particularly for lower-income residents. The council must balance the need for infrastructure investment against the affordability of essential utilities for the community.