An average utility bill in Waco, Texas, could increase by about $6.81 a month under the city's draft budget, according to the Waco Tribune-Herald.
Here's what to know
When the new budget year starts Oct. 1, utility costs are projected to rise on average.
For single-family homeowners, however, lower property valuations and a tax rate that would stay the same would largely offset that, leaving the combined monthly total for property taxes and utility bills about 66 cents higher.
Customers who use more water would see steeper rate increases. The charge per 1,000 gallons for up to 3,000 gallons of use would go from $3.47 to $3.65, and the rate for 25,000 gallons or more would rise from $12.16 to $12.78, while minimum monthly water charges would stay the same.
Several other monthly charges would also go up: Waco's average drainage fee by 20 cents, the street maintenance fee by $1, and the residential solid waste fee by 41 cents. The residential wastewater rate would climb nearly 7.5%, from $6.97 to $7.49 per 1,000 gallons.
More background
The proposal affects essential services that households cannot easily cut back on. Water, wastewater, and trash collection are not optional.
Heavier water users would feel the impact more in a hot Texas climate, where lawns, cooling demands, and larger households can drive up consumption. That burden may not be spread evenly across the community.
Spending outlined in the water fund includes major infrastructure work, with $8.1 million set aside for pump upgrades, $7.1 million for plant work, $7 million for transmission, and $5 million for other system projects.
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For wastewater and regional sewer work, the budget includes $1.8 million for interceptors and lift stations, along with $1 million for other upgrades.
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What can be done?
Residents will still have an opportunity to speak before the plan is finalized, with the Waco City Council scheduled to hold public hearings and votes Sept. 1 and 8.
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