Water Utility rates are increasing 3.5% for all customer classes in 2008. This increase is based on the Consumer Price Index of inflation for the period of July 2006 to June 2007 for the Seattle-Tacoma-Bremerton area. Annual inflationary increases effective on January 1 of each year are set forth in EMC 14.04.190(C).

The structure of the rates will not change. The current rate structure was developed through a rate study in 2005 and included a detailed review of system data and customer usage. It is a "cost of service" rate structure that is fair and equitable across different customer classes, i.e. single family residential, commercial, etc. and also within each class.

The city continues monthly meter reading, providing quicker feedback on the impact of water use and lessening the confusion of past bi-monthly averaging.

Question: Why do customers outside city limits pay higher rates?

Answer: The cost to serve the customers outside the city limits is higher than for those inside. In 2005 there were 3,352 customers inside the city served by 60 miles of waterlines versus 1,784 customers outside the city served by 77 miles. Therefore, more infrastructure is required per outside city customer due to the difference in density. The city replaced over 30 miles of waterlines outside the city limits in the last 10 years at a cost of $10 million.

Question: Will I pay more for using water during the summer?

Answer: The single family residential rate structure has an increasing "block" rate that will charge more for water consumption in the higher "blocks". Customers with a large consumption will pay more per cubic foot than those with average or below average usage. The rates will not vary seasonally. Refer to the table above to determine how the changes vary by consumption.

Question: Will rates increase again in 2009?

Answer: The 2005 rate study completed in 2005 anticipated only inflationary increases for 2008-2011. However, we will be updating the rate study to determine the impact of new debt required to complete planned capital improvement projects in the next few years.

If customers have specific questions regarding water rates, charges or the rate study, please contact Chris Searcy, Public Works Director at (360) 615-5721 or chrissearcy@ci.enumclaw.wa.us .