In brief: Water rate hike to be discussed

The Idaho Public Utilities Commission will discuss proposed water rate increases with customers of Diamond Bar Water Estates at 7 p.m. Wednesday at the Rathdrum Senior Center, 8037 W. Montana St.

Under the company’s proposal, the base charge for the first 7,500 gallons of water use would increase from $21 per month to $50 per month.

For use of more than 7,500 gallons, the fee would increase from 45 cents to 52 cents per 1,000 gallons.

The water provider, which serves about 43 households, also is seeking an increase for first-time installation of water meters from $200 to $310 and a new-customer connection charge of either $2,500 or $5,500 in those places where a service line to the property does not exist.

Diamond Bar Estates said the increases are necessary if it is to recover operating costs of $16,500 in improvements ordered by the state Department of Environmental Quality, installation of hydrant locks and legal fees to acquire and protect water rights.

The company also said it has been operating at a loss for several years. It last raised rates in 2003.

– Paula Davenport

Human resources director resigns

Michele Sandberg has resigned as human resources director for Post Falls. She is going to work in the private sector, said Kit Hoffer, the city’s public information specialist.

“While HR director, Sandberg was instrumental in transforming the city’s health insurance benefits from an entitlement culture to one driven by the employee. The city’s health insurance benefit program is a model for the private sector to envy,” city administrator Eric Keck said in a news release.

Sandberg saved Post Falls’ taxpayers a considerable amount of money, he said.

– Staff reports

Historical society to fix up building

If you’ve got a hammer, the Post Falls Historical Society hopes you’ll help spruce up its modular building at 214 E. Railroad Ave.

New steps, a ramp for disabled visitors, exterior skirting and shelves are to be installed. Donated building materials also are being sought and are tax deductible.

The historical society also is looking for volunteer staffers and museum guides and will be flexible in scheduling work hours.

The society is seeking new members. Its next monthly meeting will begin at 6 p.m., Monday in the Post Falls School District administrative building.

To help out or to obtain more information, call Sharon Alexander, president, at 262-6533.

– Staff reports