If you were not able to attend or watch live, the Board of Trustees Oct. 24 Work Session on utility rates is available now!
In summary, a 5% water and sewer rate increase was recommended in alignment with the water rate study completed in 2022. If adopted, rate changes would go into effect on Jan. 1, 2024. No one wants to hear about any proposed increase. Understanding why an increase is recommended is crucial, and we're committed to keeping you informed and providing transparent information.
Why a 5% increase is proposed:
Our community completed a comprehensive water and sewer rate study in 2022 that aligned the values that matter to Wellington with the financial reality of the utility. Changes were made to prioritize the lowest cost for essential water services and ensure new development continues to pay its way. A 5% yearly increase was included in the plan to keep up with the rising cost of providing water and sewer service.
- Infrastructure Maintenance: Upgrading current infrastructure to meet changing regulations and replace systems that have been in use for decades.
- The rising cost of raw water: The rising cost of raw water is impacting the Town of Wellington's annual budget, with a cost increase of 280% in the last five years.
- Regulatory Compliance: Adhering to ever-evolving water quality and safety regulations requires additional investments.
- Resilience: Preparing for extreme weather events and emergencies, such as droughts and floods, is vital to maintaining a reliable water and sewer system.
We understand that even a small rate increase is a burden, and we're actively exploring ways to minimize its impact on our residents. We're also working to ensure that the rate adjustment is fair and equitable for our various types of ratepayers.
There will be opportunities for you to share your feedback and concerns before any final decisions are made. We're here to listen to your thoughts and ideas.