What do water rates fund?
Water rates fund the infrastructure and operations to maintain and upgrade a complex water distribution system. Our system enables us to collect, treat, and deliver safe water to our residents, while also providing essential fire protection services. Water rates are carefully considered by Yelm City Council and city staff to ensure proper maintenance and infrastructure needs while keeping rates affordable.
What will water rates be in 2019?
That depends on the type of customer you are, how much water you use and your meter size. Every customer will see a slight increase to their monthly metered and consumption base rate. The majority of Yelm’s residential customers will see a monthly access fee increase of approximately $2.76.
In 2021, the City will adjust water rates to coincide with an annual cost-of-living increase, which is tied to the regional consumer price index. This will help cover ongoing costs to repair and upgrade the system. The annual cost to maintain the water system is approximately $1.9 million. An additional $12.3 million in capital improvements are needed from 2017-2022 to maintain service standards and rates to support those capital improvements will be re-evaluated in 2020 with Yelm City Council.
Will consumption affect my bill, and what can I do to reduce my water consumption?
We operate on a tiered usage rate, meaning the less you use, the less you pay. Community conservation efforts help keep utility rates down across the board. You can reduce consumption in your home by installing efficient fixtures, and performing consistent maintenance. If it were not for continued conservation efforts, we would need to build infrastructure more storage, treatment and distribution facilities to keep up with the demand for water. Please contact the City’s Public Works Department at 360-458-8406 to find out more about conservation measures.
Who approved the rate adjustments and when did they take affect?
In 2017, the Yelm City Council and city staff worked during open public meetings to develop a sustainable funding plan. The rate increases were approved by the council on December 12, 2017 and rates became effective January 1, 2018.
Does the city offer a reduced rate?
We offer a discounted rate for senior citizens, disabled community members and low income families. 2018 was the first year the city has implemented a 50 percent reduced base rate for those citizens and the city will continue to seek options to lower utility costs.
Does the city offer a reduced rate?
We offer a discounted rate for senior citizens, disabled community members and low income families. 2018 was the first year the city has implemented a 50 percent reduced base rate for those citizens and the city will continue to seek options to lower utility costs.
Why did the City add an annual cost-of-living rate increase to water rates?
Accounting for inflation of costs provides a stable revenue source to meet the ongoing maintenance needs in both water systems. This has not been done in the past, which is why we are facing these challenges and cost increases today. Without this action, our maintenance and capital backlog would only put the reliability of the system at risk.
