Utility (wastewater) rates will increase by 5% effective January 1, 2026. For the average user unit, this is $7.00 per billing cycle (or $14.00 per year).
Why the change?
- 3.5% reflects inflation (CPI) and rising operating costs.
- 1.5% is a strategic increase to begin addressing long-term infrastructure needs at the Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP), including dredging Cell #1 and other priority deficiencies identified in the Englobe Assessment.
What’s planned for 2026
- Wastewater mains repairs along Kingfisher Shore Road.
- Rehabilitation work at the Lake Shore lift station.
- Continued work to address WWTP deficiencies and improve performance and reliability.
Looking ahead
We are actively working to secure funding for the WWTP Cell #1 dredging to support capacity needs for the future Cherry Mountain Subdivision extension. If successful, this could avoid passing an estimated >$250,000 cost to current users and significantly change the outlook for future rates. We will keep you informed as we learn more about other funding outcomes.
What this means for you
- New rates take effect January 1, 2026 and will first appear on your January 2026 billing date statement.
- The typical impact is about $7.00 per billing cycle for one user unit.
- We will continue communicating about any future changes tied to funding decisions.
Thank you for your understanding as we invest in essential infrastructure that protects our environment, supports growth, and keeps our system reliable.