Special to the Surveyor

Due to the escalating costs associated with the operation of the water utility, the Town has found it necessary to implement a 9% rate adjustment in 2024. The Town Board voted to adjust the utility rate after thoroughly evaluating the current economic landscape and the needs outlined in the Water and Wastewater Masterplan. Through this comprehensive study, it was determined that the increase is vital to keep pace with the rising costs of water production, wastewater management, infrastructure maintenance, and compliance with regulatory standards.

Ken Matthews, Director of Water Utilities, says, “This adjustment is essential to ensure the continued provision of high-quality water, efficient wastewater management, the upkeep of the Town’s critical infrastructure, and it allows us to continue to meet state regulatory requirements.”
Starting with February’s utility bill, residents will see an average monthly increase of approximately $7.40. This rate, which includes water, sewer, and stormwater management, is based on winter usage for a typical single-family residence. Summer figures may increase depending on individual outdoor irrigation use.

The additional fees collected through this adjustment will be allocated to address market-driven inflationary expenses, including but not limited to transportation costs, fuel, chemicals, equipment upgrades, parts and maintenance, and construction costs associated with rehabilitating and improving aging infrastructure. These funds will also contribute to meeting all clean water regulations set by the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment (CDPHE).

Town Administrator Chris Kirk says, “We understand the impact any rate adjustment can have on our residents. However, this increase is necessary to ensure the ongoing provision of reliable water services and the maintenance of critical infrastructure. We have been able to avoid any increases to our utility rates for the last five years; unfortunately, between the wet summer, which was great for all of our lawns but cost the Town in revenue, and the rising cost of everything, we found that our current rates were not enough to keep up with the costs of production and maintenance.”

Residents with questions or concerns are encouraged to contact the Town’s Director of Water Utilities, Ken Matthews at [email protected] for more information.