City of North Bend release - At the April 13 work session, City Council reviewed sewer rate options to address aging infrastructure, future capital needs, and long-term financial stability.  On Monday night, the North Bend City Council held a work session to review the condition of the City’s wastewater system and discuss possible sewer rate paths for the future. The presentation explained that much of the system is old, with a significant share of pipes, pump stations, and treatment assets at or beyond their expected life. Staff also reported that the City’s sewer rates remain well below both local and national averages.  The discussion focused on a basic question taxpayers can relate to: whether to make smaller adjustments now and continue addressing needs over time, or move sooner to better prepare for major future costs. Staff shared that the system needs about $2 million per year in capital investment just to maintain current conditions, and that without action, reserves could fall to the minimum operating threshold around 2030. The presentation also noted a possible major wastewater project around 2040 that could cost about $40 million.  Council reviewed three general approaches. The first and second scenarios would help with near-term needs but would not fully solve the major long-range capital challenge around 2040. The third scenario was the only one that explicitly planned for that future project through a combination of higher near-term increases, prefunding, and bonding. Staff emphasized that the financial model is flexible and can be adjusted based on Council direction.  No final rate decision was made at the work session. The purpose of the discussion was to begin the policy conversation, review the system’s financial outlook, and help Council consider what approach would best balance affordability, system reliability, and long-term planning for North Bend residents and businesses.  Meeting Recording (video): https://youtu.be/MvtHrS3rIdM?t=489  City Council Packet (pdf): https://www.northbendoregon.gov/sitefiles/boards/packet04102026112322.pdf?dt=041426110613  Why Now? (video): https://youtu.be/iv9ZydMibTs  Got Questions? We've Got Answers! Contact us at northbendoregon.gov/contact