Davenport Council weighs 3% utility rate hike

DAVENPORT - City Council members on Wednesday, Nov. 12, approved a 3% increase to water, sewer and garbage utility rates after weeks of discussion about how to balance city expenses without overburdening residents.

Mayor Jonathan Chapman said the increase was necessary to maintain city services and fund upcoming projects. "We don't want to fall behind or end up in the negative on those things," he said.

Councilmember Cory Hollis opposed the decision, saying the city should find ways to cut costs rather than raise rates.

"I don't like overtaxing the public," Hollis said. "That's quite a bit for...