In the FY 2026-2027 budget highlights, Town Manager Harris noted that the Town has contracted with Lumber River Council of Governments for a water and sewer rate study as a VUR participant and with ElectriCities for a cost of services study. These engagements aim to assess the financial health and rate structures of the Water and Sewer Fund and the Electric Fund, both of which are described as stable and profitable but with repeated audit findings tied to fund balances. While these consulting contracts are already in place, the resulting studies are likely to drive future rate adjustments, capital planning, and possibly infrastructure investment decisions.Vendors offering utility billing systems, customer communications, capital project delivery, and financial planning can monitor outcomes of these studies and position themselves for follow-on work, such as implementing new rate structures, improving collections, or executing infrastructure projects identified as priorities.

These studies tie into repeated audit findings and long-range planning, so their recommendations may shape future procurement for both water/sewer and electric systems.