City Manager Mike Stelmaszek had requested the increase after a rate study by the Michigan Rural Water Association showed that both the sewer and water department funds needed a boost.

The proposed increase for residential customers was 34 cents per 1,000 gallons used, plus an increase of $2.83 in the standard monthly water service fee and $3.29 in the standard monthly sewer fee.

Stelmaszek indicated that even with past increases the city’s rates are in the middle compared with other municipalities in the Upper Peninsula. He believes others will also increase their rates as they replace water services containing lead, as mandated by the state.

Three council members opposed the rate increases. Council member Daniel Freeman called for better efficiency and more information. He also suggested higher connection fees.

The Kingsford Department of Public Works has begun hanging Hometown Heroes banners in Lodal Park for Memorial Day. The city plans to have a special event to honor veterans June 12 at the park. The banners will remain in the park until after Labor Day. (Contributed photo)

Council member Cynthia Dixon-Miller requested more details. Councilwoman Angela Olson also voted no but had no comments.

Council member Michael Flaminio argued that because the council had approved going ahead with the sewer and water projects, they should have to pay for them, even if it means rate increases. Mayor Joe Groeneveld also supported the increases, noting that everything is increasing.

With the aid of grants and loans, the city has completed its first water and sewer project in the Heights area and a second and third project should be finished by the end of the year or early next year. A fourth project is planned in the Breitung area. The rate studied was ordered last fall.

“I have requested that the Michigan Rural Water Association take a hard look at the variables utilized in their recent study used to establish the proposed rate increases,” Stelmaszek said.

An updated study then will go back to the city council for further review.

In other business, the council:

— Approved a request to have Flivverfest again at Lodal Park this summer, provided there is a proof of insurance. The event takes place the last Friday and Saturday in July. It features live music, food and refreshments, with all proceeds going to the athletic department at Breitung Township Schools.

— Learned that City Hall will return to summer hours June 1. They will be open at 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 7 a.m. to noon Fridays. Regular hours will return Sept. 4.

— Agreed to send Administrative Assistant/AP Clerk Jennifer Castro and Treasurer Holly Palmer to the BS&A Engage Conference for training with the city’s enterprise resource planning software that BS&A provides. The conference will be Oct. 5-8. Cost is $750 per person, plus travel costs.