information regarding WATER & WASTEWATER RATE CHANGEs effective july 1, 2022
On May 16, 2022, a Public Hearing was held at 6:00 PM at Augusta City Center to review proposed water and wastewater rate changes. The rates became effective July 1, 2022. While we take pride in keeping costs and rates stable, rising operating costs have made these increases essential to continue providing safe and reliable water supplies, and effective wastewater treatment, as detailed below.
Drinking Water & Fire Protection
The minimum monthly increase is $1.25. The typical residential customer will pay approximately $2.30 more per month, or 10% (following an increase of 10% on July 1, 2021). The increase applies to all customer classes, including public and private fire protection and private hydrants, and will generate additional revenue of approximately $447,185, which will help fund the following important work:
- Replace aging pumps, pipes and equipment
- Improve aging computer systems needed to operate the utility
- Increase operational resiliency by adding critical personnel
- Address the rising costs of supplies and energy
Wastewater
The minimum monthly increase is $2.55. The typical residential customer will pay approximately $7.17 more per month, or 30% (which follows an average rate decrease of 29% on July 1, 2019). The increase will generate additional revenue of approximately $779,000, which will help fund the following important work:
- Upgrade old pump stations
- Replace aging wastewater plant equipment
- Address increasing power and supply costs
- Replace and reline failing pipes
- Increase operational resiliency
On May 16, 2022 following the Public Hearing, the Board of Trustees voted to approve the proposed rates. The request for the increase in water rates was submitted to the PUC after the hearing in accordance with regulations. Wastewater rates are not PUC regulated.
If you have any questions or want more information, contact Brian Tarbuck, General Manager, at (207) 622-3701, or email BTarbuck@gaud.ws.