(Updated April 6, 2026)

1. Why are water rates increasing?

The rate adjustment reflects several years of significant investments in our water system. These improvements were necessary to ensure safe, high-quality drinking water, maintain system reliability, and strengthen fire protection capabilities for the communities we serve.

2. What specific changes were made to the rates?

The updated rate structure includes:

• An increase in the monthly recurring charge per meter
• An increase in the price per gallon of water used
• The addition of a fire protection (hydrant) fee

3. Why did the monthly recurring charge increase?

The monthly charge helps cover fixed costs such as system maintenance, staffing, billing services, and ongoing infrastructure upkeep. As our system has been upgraded and expanded, these baseline costs have increased.

4. Why did the cost per gallon increase?

The per-gallon rate reflects the cost of treating, testing, and delivering safe drinking water. Rising costs for materials, energy, regulatory compliance, and operations have made it necessary to adjust this rate.

5. What is the new fire protection or hydrant fee?

The fire protection fee supports the installation, maintenance, and reliability of fire hydrants and water capacity needed for emergency response. This ensures adequate water flow and pressure for firefighting services throughout the system. Separating this fee provides greater transparency. Fire protection infrastructure benefits the entire community, regardless of individual water usage, so this cost is distributed more equitably among all members.

7. How have recent infrastructure improvements benefited customers?

Recent upgrades have:

• Improved water quality and safety
• Reduced service interruptions
• Increased system reliability and capacity
• Enhanced fire protection capabilities
• Replaced aging pipes and equipment to prevent future failures

9. How were the new rates determined?

Rates were developed based on a comprehensive financial review of system needs, operating costs, capital improvements, and long-term planning to ensure the utility remains financially stable.

10. When will the new rates take effect?

Members will see the updated charges starting with their May 2026 billing statements.

12. What is the cooperative doing to control costs?

We are committed to:

• Operating efficiently
• Planning proactively to avoid costly emergency repairs
• Seeking competitive pricing for materials and services
• Investing in long-term solutions that reduce future expenses like combining separate water systems into a single system

13. Are there ways I can reduce my water bill?

Yes. Customers can lower their bills by:

• Fixing leaks promptly
• Installing water-efficient fixtures
• Reducing outdoor water use
• Monitoring usage regularly