Water, Sewer Rates Rising for Starkville Residents
Starkville residents are likely facing an increase in water and sewer rates to fund capital improvement plans. During a recent board of aldermen work session, Starkville Utilities General Manager, Edward Kemp presented a comprehensive capital improvement plan that requires an additional $2 million in sewer revenue and $1 million in water revenue each year.
Proposed Rate Increases
To meet these needs, Kemp proposed to the aldermen board to increase the base monthly rate for water by $2.50 and the sewer’s base rate by $4.75. Also, the variable rate, which is charged for monthly usage of over 1,000 gallons, would increase by 50 cents for water and $2 for sewer.
“The cost of capital improvements for the wastewater system is more than for the water system. Besides, data currently being compiled might also reveal that processing wastewater costs more than water through our system,” Edward Kemp explained.
If the proposed rate increases are approved, the new base water rate would be $8.50 for the first 1,000 gallons and $5 for every additional 1,000 gallons. Conversely, the sewer base rate would become $10.75 with a variable rate of $6.50.
Impact on Customers
Jason Barrett, a water and wastewater specialist from the Mississippi State University Extension Service, estimated that these proposed increases will significantly affect the residents. A customer using 3,000 gallons of water per month would likely see their bill increase by $11.68, while for a 4,000-gallon user, it would increase by $13.85 on average.
Long-term Planning
The proposed rate increases are aimed at long-term planning and staying ahead of capacity demands. Starkville utilities last raised water and sewer rates in 2022 but are now focused on funding their future capital improvement projects.
Wastewater Treatment: The Immediate Concern
On the sewer side, the most urgent necessity is an $8.9 million project to replace six failed aerators at Starkville’s wastewater treatment plant. The city has approximately half of this project’s funds and hopes to have the project completed by the end of 2025.
Future Plans
Over the next three to five years, new headworks estimated at a cost of $6 million would be installed to allow for more system capacity growth. Several water upgrades, including replacing aging water lines and upgrading water treatment facilities, are also planned. A significant item on this plan is a new $3 million production well.
Citizens’ Reactions
Citizens are likely to face the brunt of the announced rate increases. The general sentiment being voiced by officials is that these improvements, although not so visible or “sexy,” are necessary and primary duties of the government. By investing in these projects now, the city hopes to avoid even more expensive repairs and replacements that would result from continued deterioration down the road.
Conclusion
With the proposed increase in rates for water and sewer services, Starkville residents will be contributing to the long-term sustainability of their city’s infrastructure. While cost increases are rarely welcomed by the public, the driving factor is the city’s need to implement urgent capital improvements, enhance capacity and upgrade dated equipment, all critical for a resilient city.
