New utility rates take effect Nov. 1 in Round Rock

Round Rock residents receiving city utility services for water, wastewater, stormwater and trash could see higher bills beginning Nov. 1, when increased rates take effect.

Current situation

Water, wastewater and stormwater rates will increase by about 6% for residential customers, as previously reported by Community Impact.

Trash fees will also increase by just under 4% for residential refuse service customers.

Why now?

City officials approved higher fees for utility services earlier this year in response to higher operational costs and a request from Republic Services, the city's refuse service provider.

Public Works Director Michael Thane said the increase in rates for water-related services is due to an increase in the electric costs paid by the city to pump and move water.

“We're pumping water several times to move it around the system,” Thane said in August. “Electricity plays a big part in our rates.”

What's next?

Thane said the approved three-year rate update also includes a 3%-5% increase each year for the next two years.