Subject:
Title
Public Hearing for Fiscal Year 2025-26 Water and Sewer Rates
Body
DATE(S) OF PRIOR COUNCIL CONSIDERATION OF THIS ISSUE:
March 15 and March 17, 2025 Budget Work Session
EXPLANATION AND SUMMARY:
The Town of Vienna is proposing an increase to the volumetric water and sewer rates of 7.25%, and a 5% increase to the quarterly service charge from $40 to $42. The main factors that are driving the proposed rate increases are:
• Wholesale water purchase agreement (9% increase)
• Sewer treatment agreement (Estimated 10% increase)
• Infrastructure, maintenance, and capital improvements
• Operational cost increases (Inflationary)
Overall, the average residential customer’s bill with 12,000 gallons of quarterly consumption will increase $19 a quarter, or $76 annually.
Water availability fees will also rise in line with Fairfax County Water Authority’s rates. Changes to the fee schedule are attached.
A public hearing on these fee changes will be held to provide residents an opportunity to offer comments.
Departmental Recommendation: Recommend a public hearing on water and sewer rates.
Finance Recommendation: Recommend a public hearing on water and sewer rates.
Purchasing Recommendation: N/A
Town Attorney Recommendation: Pursuant to the Code of Virginia and the Town Code, the Town Council should conduct a public hearing to receive input on the proposed water and sewer rates for FY25-26.
Town Manager's Recommendation: I recommend the Town Council close the public hearing and approve the water and sewer rates and fees, as presented.
Cost and Financing: $13,920,750
Account Number: various
Prior Funding Approval: Annual General Budget (Year), Amendments, CIP Budget (Year), or ARPA.
Decision Needed by This date: April 7, 2025
PROPOSED/SUGGESTED MOTION
Recommended Action
“I move to close the public hearing.”
And
"I move to approve water and sewer rates and fees for FY2025-26 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 FY2025-26 at the May 19, 2025, meeting."
Or
Other action deemed necessary by Council.