news-record.com

Jamestown residents may see a 5 to 25 percent increase in their water and sewer rates, respectively, with the 2009-10 budget.

Town Manager Kathryn Billings said High Point is increasing the price Jamestown pays to buy water from the city.

“We have not had (sewer-treatment) cost increases in several years from High Point, and they’re playing catch-up,” Billings said.

Jamestown buys its water from Greensboro and High Point.

If approved, rates would increase effective Oct. 1. Meter deposits would increase from $100 to $150, a 50 percent increase.

Other fees and the town’s property tax would remain the same.

Billings said the $6.7 million budget, which includes water and sewer, capital expenses and the general fund, will see a 9.15 percent decrease.

The $3.9 million general fund reflects an 8.3 percent decrease, and the $2.8 million water and sewer fund is a 9.8 percent decrease.

The town is not asking for cost-of-living salary increases for employees but suggested a merit salary increase of up to 2 percent. Town employees are undergoing annual evaluations now.

The council set a public hearing on the budget for 7 p.m. June 16.

In other action Tuesday night, the council:

• Approved a rezoning for Guilford County Schools to change residential property to public and institutional for lots at 201, 203, 205 and 207 Arrowood Lane. The school system plans to use the property for a baseball/softball field.
• Set 7 p.m. June 16 as a date to hold a public hearing for a proposed Jamestown land development ordinance. The council will vote on the ordinance at 7 p.m. July 21.
• Approved a resolution opposing state legislation that would transfer responsibility of state roads to local governments.

Contact E.A. Seagraves at 883-4422, Ext. 241, or elizabeth.seagraves@news-record.com