During the recent Montgomery City Council meeting on July 22, 2025, significant discussions centered around the city's impact fees and solid waste collection rates, both of which are poised to affect residents directly.
One of the key topics was the adjustment of impact fees, which are charges levied on new developments to help fund infrastructure improvements. The council discussed the implications of new state legislation that will change the frequency of these adjustments from biannual to every three years starting September 1. This change raises concerns about how the city will manage its growth, especially as projections indicate an increase of approximately 3,900 new connections over the next decade. Council members expressed the need for clarity on how these fees will be calculated and the anticipated growth in the city, emphasizing the importance of planning for sustainable development.
In addition to impact fees, the council addressed an upcoming increase in solid waste collection rates. An 8.19% increase, effective August 1, was approved as part of a five-year extension of the waste management contract. This increase is attributed to various factors, including fuel costs and other operational expenses. Residents will see this adjustment reflected in their bills starting August 22, with notifications already sent out to inform the community.
The council also scheduled a public hearing for August 26 at 6 PM at City Hall to further discuss the impact fees and gather community input. This meeting aims to ensure transparency and engage residents in the decision-making process regarding the city's growth and infrastructure funding.
As Montgomery continues to experience rapid growth, these discussions highlight the council's efforts to balance development needs with the financial implications for residents, ensuring that the community's infrastructure can keep pace with its expansion.