Durango City Council is set to vote on proposed adjustments to residential and commercial water and sewer utility rates during its regular meeting on Nov. 17, a decision that could affect every household and business in the community.

According to the City of Durango website, the ordinance would increase water utility revenues by 15% and wastewater utility revenues by 9% beginning in 2027. Council members say the additional revenue is intended to fund critical infrastructure maintenance and improvement projects, reduce water loss, improve system reliability, and address long‑term utility needs.

The meeting will take place at 5:30 p.m. in the council chambers at 949 East Second Ave. In addition to the rate‑adjustment ordinance, councilors will receive a tourism update from the Prosperity Office, consider final adoption of amendments to the city’s land‑use code related to fair‑share housing requirements, and review updates to council rules of procedure that would expand public‑comment opportunities.

Other agenda items include the introduction of an ordinance governing the city’s use, management, and oversight of mass‑surveillance technologies, a resolution setting long‑term strategic direction for future Four Days of the Fourth celebrations, and the first reading of ordinances appropriating funds for the proposed 2027 operating and capital budgets. The council will also convene in executive session to receive legal advice regarding the case Charles Shaw v. City of Durango.

Durango residents who wish to comment on the rate changes or any other agenda items are encouraged to submit feedback through the city’s “Engage” webpage before the meeting. The council’s decision will shape utility costs and infrastructure quality for years to come, making public participation a key part of the process.

What’s next: The council will vote on the rate‑adjustment ordinance at the Nov. 17 meeting. Residents can attend in person or watch the live stream, and comments must be submitted via the city’s online portal prior to the meeting date.

Sources: durangoco.gov