Oak Harbor City Councilor Bryan Stucky posted this on his Facebook page on June 20, 2025.
Between 2022 and 2025, we reduced the average utility rate per household from $221.43 to $199.06. However, it now appears that external factors may cause rates to rise again, with projections showing an increase to $209.40 in 2026.
We’ve already reduced rates as much as possible—there’s not much “Slush” left in the system. The City of Anacortes increased its wholesale rate by 22.5%, and Island County has raised their tipping fees by 22%. The city has essentially been absorbing these increased costs for several months by using existing funds. If we continue doing this, our reserves will eventually be depleted.
I’ve seen many comments regarding the Marina, such as “The city should have saved for repair and dredging.” This could become a similar situation. If rates remain the same while we continue covering increased costs from reserves, we’ll eventually lack the funds needed for maintenance—or for anything at all—as expenses continue to rise.
What can be done? One of the most effective solutions is to increase the number of ratepayers. I’d love to see the Navy connect to our treatment center one day. Additionally, new housing developments would bring in more ratepayers. For those who are concerned about population growth, the silver lining is that as more homes are built, individual rates can go down. We are aggressive about going after grants when available, but of course there are never any guarantees.
I’m not here to reopen the debate about the treatment center going over budget, and it wouldn’t be appropriate for me to speak on that anyway, since I wasn’t on the council when decisions about the plant’s construction were made. What I do believe is that any rate increases must be fully transparent, clearly justified, and thoroughly explained to the public.
(Keep in mind this was DISCUSSED at a workshop. No vote has been taken at this time).
https://www.whidbeynewstimes.com/
On the Ballot in November 2025
| CITY OF OAK HARBOR |
|---|
| Councilmember, Position 4 Barbara Armes |
| Councilmember, Position 5 James P. Marrow, the incumbent Brit Kraner Marrow was appointed to replace Shane Hoffmire until the results of the election are certified in November. |
| Councilmember, Position 6 Andy Plumlee Sandi Peterson Incumbent Jim Woessner did not file for another term. |
| Councilmember, Position 7 Bryan Stucky |
