Utility Rates, Impact Fees Public Comment from Kia RicchiI apologize if this email is late. I’m a former Orlando resident who moved here 4 months ago. It was
unfortunate to learn that HDR suggests a steep 46% sewer rate increase. I imagine this is due to stricter
environmental issues and operational costs, and hopefully not due to poor (budget) planning. Re: lower
impact fees, what methodology did HDR use? I watched Orlando boom over 30 years. Initially Orlando
courted businesses to build in Orlando by lowering taxes and giving other incentives. After several years,
Orlando recognized it didn’t need to incentivize construction! Businesses would move there anyway
because of good roads, average schools, modest housing costs, hospitals, art centers, etc. I think
Kalispell should be careful not to fall for empty threats by developers who will likely build here anyway
(versus Whitefish, Columbia Falls, etc) due to amenities like hospital, gyms, stores, schools, etc. On a
side note, Orlando made A LOT of money on tourist tax, similar to what Columbia Falls is planning to do.
In closing, infrastructure costs will continue to rise. Locals will appreciate if tourists and developers
(=new residents) pick up a portion of these costs. Kia Ricchi 120 Fairway Blvd. Kalispell