City Council Approves 2.2% Utility Fee Increase

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🔍 What Just Happened

• On May 27, Naples City Council unanimously approved a 2.2% increase in fees for water, sewer, solid waste, and stormwater services .

• This adjustment is tied to the April 2024–April 2025 Consumer Price Index, matching inflation trends

💵 Household Impact

• For the average city household, the increase amounts to roughly $46.20 annually — about $3.85 more per month

• According to Mayor Teresa Heitmann, the hike is “fair” and necessary to maintain city services

📈 What Context Matters

• This is the smallest utility rate bump in five years—down from 4.5% in 2024 and 9% in 2023 .

• The goal: keep pace with inflation while ensuring city infrastructure and services remain funded.

🗣️ Community Feedback

• Some residents view it as inevitable amid rising costs:

• Others expressed concern about stagnant wages not keeping up with rising fees .

🗓️ Timeline & Next Steps

• The increase was approved in the first reading; the final vote is June 18. If confirmed, new rates take effect October 1