RATHDRUM — Rathdrum's sewer rates are on the rise, and the city plans to explore whether further hikes are needed in the future.

Homeowners will see their sewer bills rise $3.35 per month (6.5 percent) from $51.50 to $54.85 starting Oct. 1 after the city council's decision on Wednesday night. Water rates will not change.

Most of the sewer hike — $2.67 — is due to increasing costs at the Post Falls treatment plant where Rathdrum's sewer flows.

"It's a pass-on from Post Falls as they face a federal mandate to keep more phosphorus out of the Spokane River," Rathdrum Mayor Vic Holmes said.

Rates for Rathdrum's portion of the sewer system, which includes collection and transfer of the waste to Post Falls, increased 68 cents. It was the first time that part of the rate has increased since 2012.

"Our costs continue to go up," Holmes said, referring to why the city's portion was increased.

No one spoke during the public hearing about the rate hikes.

City Admini-strator Leon Duce said the city plans to hire a consultant this winter to study water and sewer rates as it has been at least 10 years since one was performed.

Part of the study will look at whether vacation rates can be offered for snowbirds who aren't around to use Rathdrum's water during the winter. Asset replacement on equipment will also be considered in the study, along with base rates and overages.

"We have been told by our auditor that we're not collecting enough for asset replacement," Duce said.

Duce said the new 68-cent increase for Rathdrum's portion is intended to reduce the deficiency gap.

"It's nowhere near what the auditor recommends to make up that gap, but it's a step in the right direction," he said.

The study will be paid for with funds from sewer and water fees.

Duce said recommendations from the study will be evaluated and weighed to keep any future increases gradual.

"(Studies) not only help you with what to do now, but 10 to 15 years in the future," he said.

• In other business, the council approved a contract with BCR Land Services of Coeur d'Alene to clear brush from the right of way along Barrett Road on Rathdrum Mountain for $158,800. It was the only bid received. The work will be the first step toward widening and paving Barrett to help create recreational opportunities on city-owned property on the mountain.

"We're excited to get the project started and hopefully next fall people will be able to hike on the mountain, but we may not have picnic areas yet," Holmes said.

Work to pave the road is expected to go out to bid in the spring.