Caldwell Residents,
This notice is to inform you of the upcoming water rate increases. Ranson Finacial has conducted a study of costs associated with operating the water system over the past 5 years and has made recommendations for a $10.00 base rate increase, and a $1.50 rate increase per thousand gallons going forward. Unfortunately, having not increased water rates since 2015 this has left the utility fund vulnerable, especially with the increasing costs it takes for day-to-day operations of the water system.
Providing a sustainable service that is safe for our customers and families to use is the most important task ahead of us. This begins with the 1st phase of the water system improvement project which will construct a new water tower, ground storage facility, pump station, and generators at the well sites. Unfortunately due to the unprecedented price increases, this project cost has increased. The City of Caldwell has received grant funding of over a million dollars but the total cost is still substantial, in addition to day-to-day operating costs.
It is with this in mind that we must follow Ranson Financial's recommendation and raise our service rates. The Caldwell Commission has chosen to break the total increase into two so you can prepare for your next bill. In August of 2022 and again in January of 2023 the flat rate will increase by $ 5.00. The price per thousand gallons will increase by $1.50.
Please contact our office with any questions you may have.
Sincerely,
Leah Sommerhoff City Administrator