Title
Comprehensive Water, Wastewater, and Reclaimed (Reuse) Water Rate Study, and Water and Sewer Impact Fee Study Recommendations
Recommended Action
Below is a summary of the key components of the proposed rate recommendations: Part I- Rates - Modify the billing tiers from four tiers to three tiers; Present the billing charge and service availability fee as one line item on the bill; Maintain the current bulk sewer rates; Modify the reclaimed water rate to reflect the disposal rate of $0.21 per 1,000 gallons; Maintain the current Sludge rate of $15.00 per wet ton; Modify the billing to reflect usage to the nearest 100 gallons rather than 1,000 gallons; Modify the water service connection fees as proposed; Modify the meter installation fees as proposed; and, Implement changes to go into effect on March 1, 2019. Part II- Impact Fees - Maintain the current impact fees of $1,300 per ERU for water and $2,796 per ERU for sewer. Schedule - Staff recommends conducting a rate study within the next five years or by 2024 to evaluate the financial stability of the utility after the remaining bond obligations are satisfied, to ensure rate equity for all customer classifications and to capture the changing dynamics of the utility system.