Marshall City Leaders Meet to Discuss Potential Utility Rate Increase

Water bills could rise by $6 per month to cover higher supply costs and infrastructure upgrades.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 5:46am

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The Board of Public Works in Marshall, Missouri met with city council members to discuss a proposed 20% increase in water rates that MMU, the local utility, plans to pursue in the coming months. MMU cited rising supply costs and the need for capital improvements at the Water Treatment Plant as the reasons behind the potential rate hike.

Why it matters

Utility rate increases can have a significant impact on household budgets, especially for lower-income residents. However, the proposed changes are intended to help MMU maintain the quality of the local water system and offset a steady decline in the department's rate of return in recent years.

The details

MMU Controller Tony Bersano stated that the board is seeking an approximately 20% increase to water rates, which would result in a $6 per month increase for customers. The rate hike is necessary to cover higher supply costs and fund capital improvement projects at the Water Treatment Plant.

  • The Board of Public Works plans to approve the increase in April 2026.
  • The City Council would need to pass two readings of an ordinance in May 2026 for final approval.

The players

Tony Bersano

MMU Controller who presented information about the proposed rate increase to the city council.

Jeff Bergstrom

MMU General Manager who stated the rate increase is necessary to maintain the quality of the water system.

Craig Thompson

Marshall Mayor who appreciated that MMU is being proactive and thorough during the rate increase process.

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What they’re saying

“The rate increase would also help offset the steady decline in the department's rate of return over the past several years.”

— Tony Bersano, MMU Controller

“The rate increase is necessary to help MMU maintain a quality water system.”

— Jeff Bergstrom, MMU General Manager

“I appreciate that MMU is being proactive and thorough during this process.”

— Craig Thompson, Marshall Mayor

What’s next

The Board of Public Works plans to approve the increase in April 2026, and the City Council would need to pass two readings of an ordinance in May 2026 for final approval.

The takeaway

This proposed rate increase highlights the ongoing challenge of maintaining aging water infrastructure and the need to balance affordability for residents with the financial sustainability of public utilities. The thorough review process by city leaders aims to ensure any rate changes are justified and communicated effectively to the community.