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Rate Increase June 2023
COMMERCIAL BILLING METHOD CHANGE JUNE 2023
On February 9, 2023, the Lake Stevens Sewer District Board of Commissioners voted to approve a revision to the commercial billing methodology after careful consideration of a study performed by FCS Group on the 2022 Commercial Sewer Rate & GFC Review. Beginning June 2023, water consumption of 600 cubic feet (CF) is considered equal to one Equivalent Residential Unit (ERU). Previously an ERU was considered 750 CF.
How this will affect Commercial monthly rates
The monthly calculation for commercial rates will be $99 for the first 600 CF and $0.165 per CF above the 600. Many Commercial customers with low water consumption will notice little or no change in the amount they pay each month. However, high water consumers will notice a 25% increase.
Why rates are increasing
Lake Stevens Sewer District Commissioners have determined that a revision to the sewer service rate for Commercial accounts is necessary for the proper operation of the District and is consistent with the rate structure of other local agencies providing sewerage service. This will help protect residential rates by ensuring commercial accounts are paying a proper equivalent cost.
RESIDENTIAL RATE INCREASE JUNE 2022For the first time since 2017, the Lake Stevens Sewer District Board of Commissioners approved an increase to monthly sewer service rates. On April 28th, the Board voted to approve an increase of $13 per unit, bringing rates from $86 to $99/month. This $13 increase is critical to maintain the reliability of Lake Stevens’ existing sewer system by covering not only increased district costs and expenses, but also $16M of capital costs needed to replace 19.5 miles of pipe that has reached the end of its useful life.
Guiding PrinciplesThe Board established six key guiding principles during the deliberations on the possible rate increase, which set a framework for open discussions. A special meeting was held on March 31, 2022 for the public to share their thoughts with the Board on the proposed rate increase.
Since 2017, inflation in the Lake Stevens area has grown by about 17%. The rate increase was identified as a moderate first step toward securing the needed funds to maintain quality service for existing customers. The forecasting models evaluated spread the burden of necessary infrastructure repairs, replacements, and improvements between customers’ rates, new connection fees, and additional planned debt issuance to the district. This financial investment into the sewer system is necessary to continue to have a functioning system that transports and treats liquid waste effectively and efficiently.
Maintaining the sewer system into the futureThe Lake Stevens Sewer District believes in planning for the future and may have to raise rates again to fund additional repair, replacement, and expansion. As we have done with this rate increase, we will transparently communicate any future rate increases to you before they take effect.
How to get in touchIf you have questions about the rate increase, please get in touch using our contact form. A member of our team will assist you.