Those were two issues that moved forward when the City Council passed the budget 7-2 on Sept. 27.
This is the third year in a row and and fourth time in five years that the retail water rates have not increased, although the water utility budget increased $24 million in the fiscal year 2022-23 budget. Water Director Chris Harder noted a growth in retail customers, growth in wholesale customer volumes and higher impact fees led to the growth in budget without a rate increase.
Harder said to expect a small percentage increase to the rates in 2024.
Fort Worth residents will see a small increase on the utility bill starting in January. The environmental fee is now $1.50—up 50 cents—to help toward litter cleanup and illegal dumping enforcement.
The increase will add $6 million annually for environmental services, such as street sweeping. The budget calls for the city to buy 10 new street sweepers for $4 million. Fort Worth has two sweepers, but the new trucks will not be delivered for another 12-18 months, city officials said.
An expanded street sweeping program will begin Nov. 1 after Sweeping Corp. of America was awarded a contract for $1.5 million. SCA crews will work with the city to focus on major arterial roadways and business corridors, according to documents.
