The Pella City Council passed the first reading on an ordinance that would increase the city’s water utility and wastewater rates at this week’s meeting. Pella City Administrator Mike Nardini says the increase in wastewater rates is directly tied to $3.5 million dollars in sewer infrastructure improvements that was mandated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources; while the adjustment to Pella’s water rates will amend the rate structure for medium to high-end users and help cover needed infrastructure improvements.