The Monroe City Council and Mayor Friday Ellis deserve credit and recognition for the council’s unanimous decision on February 10, 2026, to approve significant rate increases for water, sewer, and refuse collection.
While raising utility fees is never politically easy, the leadership shown by this council and administration marks a refreshing departure from the gridlock and dissent of the past.
What is most impressive is the deliberate, transparent process that led to this moment. Throughout last year, the council, led by the Southside “Brown Bombers,” took this matter directly to the public in at least eight meetings covering all districts, providing residents with a platform to voice their concerns.
By listening to the community and working together, the mayor and council crafted a package that achieved what once seemed politically impossible: raising rates with little to no public opposition.
This success stands in stark contrast to previous years, when similar proposals were met with long lines of frustrated citizens and vocal complaints from union leaders. Raising rates was such a hot issue that garbage rates had not been raised in 22 years.
This time, even the city’s union offered no dissent—a powerful sign of trust in the administration’s word and the city council’s willingness to ensure that promises made would be kept.
The necessity of these increases is clear. The city must generate enough revenue to meet its legal bond responsibilities, with water rates rising by approximately 9.96% specifically to comply with statutory requirements. Beyond legal obligations, these funds are critical for operational growth:
- Infrastructure & Equipment: The revenue will allow the city to purchase much-needed new trucks and equipment.
- Workforce Investment: It provides the means to grant pay increases to the dedicated employees of the Public Works department.
- Operational Integrity: New refuse collection rules will include charges for receptacle rentals and stricter enforcement; ineligible trash will no longer be picked up, and violators will be ticketed to ensure efficiency and fairness.
Crucially, the council did not forget its most vulnerable residents. Councilwoman Juanita Woods was a tireless advocate for the “Lifeline” program, which provides a financial cushion for seniors aged 62 and older.
However, as Woods, other council members and the mayor emphasized, these discounts are not automatic and must be applied for.
To ensure no senior is left behind, Mayor Ellis announced that clear, large-print notices about the program will be included in the next water bill.
This unanimous vote represents more than just a rate adjustment; it is a commitment to getting Monroe back into compliance and avoiding the “repeat” audit findings of the past.
As these new fees take effect on May 1, 2026, the community’s trust will be put to the test.
We hope the administration continues to honor that trust by delivering the improvements and stability they have promised.
