Unofficial results- Cape Girardeau voters approve temporary utility rate cap increase in special election

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) — Voters in Cape Girardeau have approved a proposal to temporarily raise the cap on annual utility rate increases, according to unofficial results from Tuesday’s special election.

With more than 4,300 ballots cast, 58% of voters, 2,523 people, voted “yes” to the measure, while 1,813, 42%, voted “no.”

The approved proposal raises the current cap on water and sewer rate increases from 5% to 15%.

City officials say the additional revenue is needed to expand the Cape Rock Water Treatment Plant, increase water production, and strengthen supply during peak usage times.

Final official results are still pending, but the unofficial results shows support for the city’s plan to address growing infrastructure needs.