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Water and Sewer Fee Increase FAQ

Dear Tooele City Residents,

We want to inform you of an upcoming change that will affect your water and sewer rates on your Tooele City utility bill.  Beginning with the bill you will receive June 1, 2024, Tooele City will be implementing newly adopted fees for water and sewer services as approved by City Ordinance on April 3, 2024.  These rates will go in to effect May 1, 2024 and will be reflected on your billing statement June 1, 2024.  

Below are some frequently asked questions that may address any concerns you may have:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why are utility rates increasing?

     A comprehensive master plan for both water and sewer services was conducted to evaluate the current state and future needs of the utility systems. This report indicated the urgent need for increased investments to replace aging infrastructure, sustain current demand, and keep up with continued growth of our city. Utah state regulations require evaluation of water and sewer facilities over a 20-year planning horizon to address needs including water storage and waste water treatment.

     Tooele City's last rate adjustment for these utilities took effect in 2003. In the years since we have been able to complete many successful projects and implemented measures within our control to reduce costs while mindfully managing these systems to provide quality service to all residents. With inflation increases, the cost of needed capital projects also increases every year. Despite successful cost-saving measures, inflation and necessary capital projects necessitate these rate changes to ensure the continuation of essential services.

When will this take effect?

The new rates go into effect May 1, 2024.  The new rates will be reflected on your billing statement June 1, 2024.

Who is affected?

All users of water and sewer services within Tooele City.

How much will I have to pay?

     Water rates will vary based on meter size and monthly consumption. One billing “unit” is equal to 748 gallons of water.

     Sewer rates will be calculated based on the average winter water consumption from November to March.  Please refer to the charts below for specific details.

Water Rates
Base Rate Adjustments Current Fee June 2024
3/4" $10.00 $10.73
1" $15.00 $16.09
1.5" $22.50 $24.13
2" $30.00 $32.18
3" $37.50 $40.22
4"-8" $45.00 $48.26
     
Usage Rate Adjustments Current Fee June 2024
0-10 Units $0.75 $0.77
11-30 Units $1.00 $1.02
31-50 Units $1.25 $1.28
51-70 Units $1.50 $1.53
71-90 Units $1.75 $1.79
91+ Units $2.00 $2.04


Sewer Rates
Base Rate Adjustments Current Fee June 2024
Rate Code 301 $7.00 $10.50
     
Usage Rate Adjustments Current Fee June 2024
All Users $2.00 $3.00
How will the rate increases affect my bill?

     The impact on your bill will depend on your meter size and water usage. Examples of bill changes for a residential and commercial account are provided below.

Residential   Current June 2024
Based on 10 Units of Water
3/4" Meter Water $17.5 $18.43
  Sewer $27.00 $40.50
  Garbage $13.00 $13.00
  Garbage EXTRA Can $6.50 $6.50
  Storm Water $3.00 $3.00
  Street Light $2.00 $2.00
  Recycling $7.18 $7.18
  Total Bill Amount:  $76.18 $90.61


Commercial   Current June 2024
Based on 50 Units of Water
1 1/2" Meter Water $75.00 $77.83
  Sewer $107.00 $160.50
  Garbage - -
  Garbage EXTRA Can - -
  Storm Water $10.00 $10.00
  Street Light $2.00 $2.00
  Recycling - -
  Total Bill Amount:  $194.00 $250.33
How will this affect my equal pay amount?

     All equal pay amounts will be adjusted to accommodate the rate increases by a percentage to best match the actual increase in rates. Equal pay amounts are an estimate of usage and based on prior usage. Each account on equal pay will have a debit or credit balance depending on actual usage and customers are encouraged to review this amount each month and contact us with any concerns on the balance with the equal pay so that adjustments can be made before the equal pay period ends. Any overages in charges or credit balances will be adjusted in December each year.

What projects will be completed over the next five years?

     Water projects will consist of new waterlines, waterline replacements and developing water sources. The sewer projects will include major upgrades and replacements to the Wastewater Treatment Facility that have become critical to handle the current flow. These projects will consist of a new clarifier, solar dryer, new skid plates, and new headworks building.

Will rates increase again in the future?

     Tooele City is committed to maintaining quality and efficient water and wastewater services without interruption. While the City works hard to minimize costs while ensuring optimal utility operation, rates will be evaluated on a yearly basis moving forward to determine any needed adjustments. Tooele City will strive to minimize the impact to its residents while maintaining these critical systems.

Where can I get more information?

For further information please refer to our current fee schedule. You can also reach us by email at utilities@tooelecity.gov or by phone at 435.843.2150.