Articles & Other Info of Interest

ND Water Magazine: The Value of Water (pdf)

December 21, 2007

Raising Revenues without Raising Rates

  •  Eliminate the minimum gallons allowed on water and sewer bills. Example $10.00/month plus $1.00/1000. Collect for all water that goes through the meter.
  • Eliminate the descending step rate. Example the first 5,000 at $1.00/1,000, next 5,000 at $.75/1,000 and over 10,000 at $.50/1,000. The cost is the same to pump the first gallon, as it is to pump the 50,000th gallon. Descending or step rates actually discourage water conservation. To the customers, the more they use, the less they will have to pay for it.
  • Meter all connections and bill for all water consumed/used. Each user must pay a proportional share of operation, maintenance and replacement cost.
  • Maintain an on-going meter replacement and testing program. Suggested schedule per AWWA is as follows: 5/8" every 10 years, ¾" every 8 years, 1" every 7 years, 2" every 5 years, 3" every 4 years, 4" every 2 years, 6" or larger every year.
  • Have a meter charge or service charge based on the size of meter.
  • Amend water ordinance to adjust rates and fees by resolution.
  • Have adequate reconnection fees. Fees should include a high fee for after hours and holiday reconnections.
  • Have adequate tap and inspection fees.
  • Have adequate deposit fees.
  • Have an accurate and separate record of revenue and expenditures for the water and sewer systems. Have a rates review by an outside source every three years.

 

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