The Hood River City Council unanimously directed municipal staff to prepare a utility rate setting resolution for the upcoming fiscal year based on the recommendations made by a consulting firm.  It would include rate credits for non-residential stormwater mitigation efforts offset by a broadbased rate increase across all stormwater customers, and water and sewer rate assistance for those making 60 percent below the area median income to be paid for by a broadbased phased-in rate increase across all water and sewer ratepayers.  It also includes a program to provide rate credits applied to electricity bills equal to the water and sewer discounts for low income households where water and sewer charges are included in their rent.  Mayor Kate McBride said the recommendation stems from the most thorough utility rate review the City has undertaken in many years.  The resolution will come back to the Council for a final vote at a future meeting.