Multimillion dollar construction projects overseen by the regional water utility in Central Arkansas are scheduled to continue to move ahead next year.

During a meeting on Thursday, Central Arkansas Water's board of commissioners unanimously approved the utility's 2026 financial plan outlining planned revenue and expenses as well as capital projects.

The utility is anticipated to receive $108.4 million in operating revenue, an increase of $377,000, or less than 1%, from the projection for the current year. Operating expenses are expected to increase by 5.4% next year, from $81.5 million to $85.9 million.

Labor and benefits account for $1.9 million of the planned increase to operating expenses. The utility plans to increase its overall pay scale for personnel by 3% in January, Cynthia Ed

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