RHINELANDER - Even in a bad economy, some improvements can't be put off forever.

And while no one wants to pay higher fees.

It's a problem the Rhinelander City Council faces August 13. The council will hold a public hearing and then vote on adding a stormwater utility charge.

The utility helps fund infrastructure improvements along with regular maintenance.

Tony Gilman with Rhinelander Public Works says the proposal is fair because it includes non-taxed entities like schools and churches in the funding.

"Rhinelander like any other city in Wisconsin and probably the united states has infrastructure improvement issues," Gilman said. "There's just not the funding anymore. The purpose of the stormwater utility is to create a more fair system of acquiring funds for stormwater improvements."

The city wants to use a three-year phase-in model. The most a residential home would end up paying is $39 dollars per year.

Anything beyond the typical residence size will be charged more.

Spots with large areas of blacktop or concrete will face higher prices.

You can voice your opinion about the stormwater utility August 13 at 6 o'clock at Rhinelander City Hall.