WEST BOUNTIFUL -- Debate over water rate increases for residents is over. Changes will go into effect April 1 with the increases reflected on May's bill and residents will be paying more than double the current minimum.
Although the base rate went from $30 down to $22, another $18 per month was added for the Series 2009 bond repayment and $23 was added for the capital improvement plan, bringing the basic residential rate to $63 per month.
Commercial water rates, tiered according to access pipe width, also doubled, with the lowest tier going from $30 to $63 for three-quarter-inch pipe, while six-inch pipe charges go from $630 to $1,323.
City Administrator Craig Howe shared the reasons for the increase at a recent public hearing.
"Our waterlines were installed and have received minimal maintenance for over 60 years. We really haven't had a fund created to replace these as we go. We've pretty much kept our water rates fairly low," Howe said.
The basic water rate was raised last year from $22 for 12,000 gallons to $30 a month for 8,000 gallons with tiers for additional use. The new fee increases the monthly rate to $63 for the same 8,000 gallons.
Howe said the increase is also necessary to cover the current annual water system shortfall of $233,871.
"Even with our recent $4.7 million water bond, if we only make up the shortfall and make up the interest, there will be no money to make the repairs for decades," he said.
It will take 15 to 20 years and more than $20 million to replace the 50,000 feet of waterlines needing attention.
Public Works Supervisor Blake Anderson said the city's high groundwater table, along with cast iron, creates electrolysis that eats holes in the pipe, necessitating their replacement.
Howe shared details surrounding last year's rate increase.
"The council at that time was very sensitive to that increase and didn't want to overdo it. Those rates, as it turned out, were enough to cover the principal on the $4.7 million bond, but not the interest. We were falling about $17,000 a month short. With this increase, we can solve the water problems, provide for future development, and keep our tanks filled," Howe said.
Mayor Ken Romney said he understands residents' concerns over increases.
"Money's tight for everyone right now, but these problems are serious. It would be irresponsible to delay a resolution and avoid a long-term, permanent solution," he said.
Howe responded to suggestions that the staff review the budget for potential cutbacks.
"We have looked at our budget in depth. We've turned over every stone, gently washed it off and placed it back in the budget stream," he said.
The current city budget is posted on the city's Web site at www.westbountiful.utah.gov.
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