Of the two alternative rates presented, one would involve a flat increase of 4.6%-4.9% to residential nonirrigation water use and a 6% increase to irrigation water use.
The second alternative is a progressive increase to water consumption. Nonirrigation rates would increase once a water user passes 30,000 gallons. Irrigation rates would increase once after 20,000 gallons.
According to the city’s preliminary report, 84% of residents consume less than 15,000 gallons of water per month. Approximately 3% of residents consume more than 25,000 gallons of water per month.
City staff will present a final rate study at a Sept. 12 meeting. The council will then decide whether to incorporate any changes in the fiscal year 2022-23 budget, which is expected to be adopted Sept. 26.
The city’s first look at water and wastewater rate changes came at a July 25 council meeting, during which city staff presented preliminary information on the city’s rate structure.
On June 23, the city entered Stage 2 of its Drought Contingency Plan, requesting all residents reduce their water usage on a voluntary basis.
Harris County has experienced some level of drought conditions since December 2021, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.
The last time West University Place entered Stage 2 of its plan was in 2011, Public Works Director Gerardo Barrera said.
