Lancaster Mayor To Veto Utility Charge Increases

Lancaster Mayor Dave Varnam intends to override proposed increases to utility charges included in the city’s 2022 budget. Common Council members are considering rate increases to city sewer, stormwater and trash service that would add an additional $3.78 on a resident’s monthly bills. Varnam has issued letters saying he will veto sewer and stormwater proposals, which the council approved Monday night. The $4.5 million budget also includes a 1.6% tax increase. The city portion of residents’ tax bills is projected to increase from $6.88 per $1,000 of valuation to $6.99. Varnam says he thinks it is too much to pass on to residents.