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Rates effective May 1, 2012 address rising costs, infrastructure needs
May 1, 2012 Water Services customers will be charged new rates on their water usage and wastewater (sanitary sewer) services. On average most residential households will experience an increase in their combined (water, wastewater, and stormwater) bill of approximately nine dollars a month, or about 14 percent. The increase in rates was approved by the City Council to reflect rising costs, expanded investment in new facilities, the replacement of aging infrastructure and compliance with federal government mandates for upgrades to sewer systems.
The need for major infrastructure improvements was highlighted by the number of water main breaks experienced in 2011. Although all of the breaks have been repaired, it is important that the rest of the aging infrastructure be addressed to reduce the number of service interruptions.
Kansas City Water Services continues to provide a great value for both residential and wholesale customers. In fact, our water and sewer rates are comparable to other area providers. In addition, the quality of our drinking water has consistently received high marks from third parties.
Over the last several decades, water and wastewater rates have not even kept pace with inflation. Water Services must address repairs and system replacements of aging infrastructure while at the same time implementing the Overflow Control Program which is estimated to cost $2.4 billion in 2008 dollars.
This year Water Services is undergoing a number of changes to increase the department’s efficiency and effectiveness including increasing the use of private contractors to address infrastructure breaks quickly. Water Services is also developing a new master plan identifying key water infrastructure needs and a number of accelerated maintenance programs are underway.
