Subject:
Title
Public Hearing for Fiscal Year 2026-27 Water and Sewer Rates (5 mins.)
Body
DATE(S) OF PRIOR COUNCIL CONSIDERATION OF THIS ISSUE:
March 9, 2026, Town Council Work Session
March 14, 2026, Town Council Work Session
March 23, 2026, Town Council Work Session
EXPLANATION AND SUMMARY:
The Town of Vienna is proposing an increase to the volumetric water and sewer rates of 4.0%, and a $3 increase to the quarterly residential base rate from $42 to $45. The main factors that are driving the proposed rate increases are:
• Wholesale water purchase agreement (9% increase)
• Sewer treatment agreement (41% increase)
• PFAS treatment requirements
• Increased investment in water main replacement and infrastructure
• Operational cost increases
Overall, the average residential customer’s bill with 12,000 gallons of quarterly consumption will increase $15 per quarter, or $60 annually.
Water availability fees will also rise in line with Fairfax County Water Authority’s rates. Changes to the fee schedule are attached.
Town Council is also considering a change to the current rate structure for commercial accounts.
A public hearing on these fee changes will be held to provide residents with an opportunity to offer comments.
Departmental Recommendation: Recommend a public hearing on the proposed water and sewer rates.
Finance Recommendation: Recommend a public hearing on the proposed water and sewer rates.
Purchasing Recommendation: N/A
Town Attorney Recommendation: Pursuant to the state and Town Code, the Town Council must conduct a public hearing to receive public input on the proposed FY26-27 water and sewer rates.
Town Manager's Recommendation: I recommend the Town Council approve the water and sewer rates and fees for FY 2026-2027, as presented and that the Town Council direct the Town Clerk to advertise the Notice of Intent to Adopt the water and sewer rates at its May 18, 2026 Town Council meeting, as presented.
Cost and Financing: $15,426,000 Water and Sewer Fund Proposed Budget
Account Number: various
Prior Funding Approval: Annual General Budget (Year), Amendments, CIP Budget (Year), or ARPA.
Decision Needed by this date: April 6, 2026
PROPOSED/SUGGESTED MOTION
Recommended Action
“I move to close the public hearing.”
And
“I move to approve the water and sewer rates and fees for FY 2026-27 as presented. I further move that the Town Clerk be directed to advertise a Notice of Intent to Adopt water and sewer rates and fees for FY2026-27 at the May 18, 2026, meeting.”
Or
Other action deemed necessary by Council.