Council approves
new deposit rate

By Jody Norwood
Tribune-Courier News Editor
jnorwood@tribunecourier.com

BENTON – In a move to recoup some of the city’s losses, the Benton city council agreed last week to raise the deposit on water and sewer services to renters to $150.

“What we’re recommending now is that we raise the deposit to $150,” said mayor Steve Cary. “That will maybe help us recoup some of our money.”

Currently, the water deposit on rental property is $75. The new rates would be more in line with gas service deposits for renters, which is currently $125. Gas service deposits for residential owners are $75.

The move comes a month after the council considered placing liens on rental property owners if the tenant left owing the city for services. At the July meeting, councilwoman Rita Dotson questioned the impact it would have on rental property owners if the city allowed a bill to build for months before disconnecting unpaid service. Councilman Mickey Sirls, likewise, expressed concern.

Monday, councilman Glen Brewer said he had heard complaints about the proposal, but he supported the new ordinance.

The council unanimously approved the motion.

Also in city services, the council approved a proposal to negotiate gas rates with Alcan Composites. Alcan, the city’s only industrial natural gas purchaser, had been investigating purchasing services on their own, but asked the city if a new rate could be agreed upon.

The council agreed to a rate of $1.50 per 1,000 cubic feet.