Eldon to host public hearing on water rate increases following E. coli concerns

ELDON, Mo. (KMIZ)

Eldon residents will have a chance to weigh three proposed payment plans for the city’s ongoing E. coli water treatment costs during a public hearing Tuesday.

The three rate increase options proposed to the council are:

• Increase rates using a volumetric water rate of $4 per 1,000 gal.
• Add base cost of $5 with a volumetric water rate of 15 cents per 1,000 gal
• Add base cost of $5 with a volumetric water rate of $2 per 1,000 gal

The increase comes as the city is over five months into emergency sanitation, which uses chlorine to kill harmful bacteria in the water lines after E. coli was found in the water twice since the start of this year. The city also had a three-week-long boil order in December 2025.

According to City Administrator Mandy Ashbury, the increased rates will cover new chlorination systems at water wells and water lines, which DNR requires for treatment.

She added that copper and iron water lines do not support chlorination treatment. Funds will also be used to renovate the city's infrastructure, such as water meters and new well pumps, and to help pay for new employees.

The public hearing will start at 5:30 p.m. in the city's Public Works Building.

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