The Wellman City Council approved an ordinance lifting water rates for 2023-2024 in preparation for a planned $5.1 million upgrade to 13,500 ft. of the pipes that deliver the city’s drinking water.

The new monthly rates would be $50.17 for the first 1,000 gallons and $8.29 for each additional 1,000 gallons. Officials project that household water rates would increase from $56.25 to $58.46, only $2.21, on 2,000 gallons monthly. On monthly usage of 5,000 gallons, the cost would increase from $78.87 to $83.33, a modest increase of $4.46.

City officials have said that the 100-year-old system is leaking water, significantly increasing its operational costs for both pumping water and treatment costs. Funding for the project could come from a combination of city-issued bonds, a local option sales tax, the State Revolving Fund (SRF), and the approved increase in water rates.

In other business, the city signed a law enforcement contract for $115,000 with the Washington County Sheriff’s department for protection services. The contract, which is renewed annually, is based on a community’s property valuations. The Sheriff’s Department has similar contracts for law enforcement with other small communities in Washington County.

Wellman will conduct its city-wide clean-up on May 8, 9 and 10 this year. The city is offering curb -side service for $15 or, residents can haul their own trash to the city drop-off site without charge. Those wanting curb-side service would need to schedule a pick-up day and pay the fee in advance.

City council members said the Wellman Library will likely be moving to its temporary location the first week in May.

The Wellman City Council approved a rental contract in February that will temporarily house the Wellman-Schofield Library in downtown Wellman while its space in the city administration building is being renovated.

The library will relocate to Wellman’s Driscoll Building as construction begins on an $832,000 expansion of its floorspace. The refurbished library will incorporate space on the east end of building, formerly used by the Senior Dining Center. The addition will nearly double its current size. The work is expected to be completed in October of this year.

City Manager Kelly Litwiller said the library needs volunteers to assist with moving books and fixtures. Those interested can contact the library for more information.

The city council approved a contract with Boyse Dozing to create a new driveway at the city sewer plant. The project is estimated to cost between $2,500 and $3,000. 

The council has set a public hearing for April 3 on the City of Wellman’s fiscal year 2023-2024 budget.