Madison sewer district fee plan draws concern from local officials

The Madison Metropolitan Sewerage District's proposed fee increase for 2027 is drawing objections from some Dane County communities. The initial 12% increase was lowered to 9.9% after an Oct. 8 commission meeting, but district officials still anticipate similarly sized annual increases over the next five years.

Why communities are concerned McFarland officials say district charges account for most of what residents pay for sanitary sewer service. A higher district fee could force the village to consider raising its own sewer rates. Village Administrator Matt Schuenke has urged commissioners to control costs and questioned the timing of three major construction projects.

The district serves 24 cities, villages and town sanitary districts, including Madison, McFarland, DeForest, Cottage Grove, Monona, Waunakee and Windsor. Wastewater is treated at the Nine Springs plant. Sun Prairie, Deerfield, Oregon and Stoughton operate their own treatment facilities.

District response and next steps Executive Director Eric Dundee says aging infrastructure, Wisconsin environmental requirements and expected regional growth make the projects necessary. He estimates the service population could rise about 25% over 20 years. The district is also pursuing federal grants and congressional earmarks to reduce pressure on fees.

District spokesperson Amanda Wegner said the initial proposal would have brought the average monthly sanitary charge to $28.50, compared with figures she supplied of $30 for Green Bay, $36.96 for Milwaukee, $45.80 statewide and a $54 national median. Those comparisons use different stated measures and should not be treated as identical household bills.

The nine-member commission plans a budget vote at 8 a.m. Oct. 22 at 1610 Moorland Road in Madison. McFarland's Village Board is scheduled to consider an opposition resolution Oct. 13, including proposals concerning reserves, project financing and limits on future rate increases.