Beginning Oct. 1, the city is implementing a new rate structure to calculate monthly utility bills. Most single-family residential customers will see a reduction in their statements because minimum-use quantities are being replaced with the actual number of gallons used, a change which will encourage water conservation.
The last time service rates were modified other than the annual Consumer Price Index adjustment was in 2004.
In addition to the change in the rate structure, customers who have a timely payment history for 24 consecutive months beginning with October 2021’s statement, will have their deposits refunded through a credit to their account starting in October 2023.
The changes come after a water and wastewater rate and strategic planning study (PDF) was completed that recommended several changes to the city’s utility rates and structure. Under the recommended rate structure, more than 90% of single-family residential customers will see a reduction in their monthly bill. The comprehensive study was conducted by Raftelis, a utility and public-sector consulting firm, and includes a 10-year financial outlook. Commissioners approved the recommended changes in February.
Customers with questions can call (386) 671-8100 or email the Utility Billing department.
Comparison of Combined Monthly Water and Wastewater Bills under the Existing and Proposed Rates for Single-family Residential Service |
Monthly Metered Gallons | Existing FY 20-21 | Proposed FY 21-22 | Difference |
0 | $32.89 | $17.94 | $(14.95) |
1,000 | $32.89 | $31.78 | $(1.11) |
2,000 | $48.98 | $45.62 | $(3.36) |
3,000 | $65.07 | $59.46 | $(5.61) |
4,000 | $81.16 | $73.30 | $(7.86) |
5,000 | $97.25 | $87.14 | $(10.11) |
6,000 | $113.34 | $100.98 | $(12.36) |
7,000 | $129.43 | $114.82 | $(14.61) |
8,000 | $145.52 | $129.96 | $(15.56) |
9,000 | $161.61 | $145.10 | $(16.51) |
10,000 | $177.70 | $160.24 | $(17.46) |
11,000 | $193.79 | $175.38 | $(18.41) |
12,000 | $209.88 | $190.52 | $(19.36) |