San Antonio City Council on Nov. 10 unanimously approved the San Antonio Water System's fiscal year 2022-23 budget, which among other things will decrease water bills for 83% of SAWS customers.

The $978.8 million budget also features pay raises for all employees of the city-owned water utility and reduces wastewater charges on all residential bills in 2023.

SAWS officials said the average residential customer will see their total water bill cut by $5.80, from $66.68 to $60.88 monthly.

Additionally, for customers who meet income requirements and enroll in SAWS’ Affordability Discount Program, 98% of bills will be lowered, according to utility officials.

A Rate Advisory Committee helped the SAWS to develop the new water rate structure for 2023.

District 8 City Council Member Manny Pelaez said the decreased water bills for most SAWS users will help people struggling with inflation and other rising costs of living.

“With the rising costs of basic goods and services, many of our residents are struggling to pay their utility bills. This new SAWS rate structure brings financial relief not only to those in need—but to all residential ratepayers,” Pelaez said in a statement.

Mary Bailey, SAWS vice president of customer experience, echoed Pelaez’s remarks.

“We know our city has a high percentage of residents living below the federal poverty level. The new rates will provide more help than ever before for nearly every customer in our Affordability Discount Program,” Bailey said in a statement.