Understanding the Drivers Behind the Rate Increase
Fort Worth residents should brace for an increase in their water bills starting in 2025. The city’s water department has proposed raising water and wastewater rates to fund a $42 million increase in the utility’s 2025 budget, which is expected to reach $616,969,098 – a 7% jump from 2024.
The proposed rate hike, which could be approved by the Fort Worth City Council as early as August 27th, would raise the average combined residential water and wastewater bill by $1.71 per month. This marks the first rate increase since 2023, as no changes were made in 2019 or between 2021-2023.
So, what’s driving this substantial budget increase, and how can Fort Worth residents prepare for the upcoming changes? Let’s dive in.
Infrastructure Upgrades and Maintenance
A significant factor behind the rate hike is the water department’s ambitious capital improvement plan, which includes increases in debt service payments, pay-as-you-go (pay-go) cash financing, and capital equipment purchases. These infrastructure investments are necessary to keep pace with the city’s growth, maintain aging pipes and facilities, and fund upgrades to the regional water system.
Over the next five years, the department plans to spend more than $2 billion on major projects, including:
- Expanding the capacity of the Eagle Mountain Water Treatment Plant
- Replacing 12 primary clarifiers at the Village Creek Water Reclamation Facility
- Continuing the design of a new wastewater treatment plant at Mary’s Creek in west Fort Worth
- Accelerating the replacement of the city’s 700 miles of cast iron water mains, which account for over 85% of the main breaks each year
These critical investments in Fort Worth’s water infrastructure will help ensure reliable and sustainable services for the growing community.
Compliance with New Regulations
In addition to infrastructure needs, the water department’s budget is also being impacted by new federal regulations, particularly around lead and PFAS (“forever”) chemicals.
The EPA’s recently revised Lead and Copper Rule requires utilities to use science-based testing protocols to identify more sources of lead in drinking water, establish trigger levels for mitigation efforts, and test schools and childcare facilities. Fort Worth must also identify and publicly disclose the locations of all lead service lines, as well as complete their replacement.
Furthermore, the EPA has established new standards for PFAS chemicals, which have been linked to various health concerns. Fort Worth’s water treatment plants reported 16 samples exceeding the agency’s new PFAS limits, prompting the city to hire attorneys to explore potential litigation against chemical manufacturers.
To comply with these new regulations, the proposed budget includes an additional $1.1 million for professional services, contract lab analysis, and other costs.
Increasing Raw Water Costs
Another significant driver of the rate increase is the rising cost of raw water purchased from the Tarrant Regional Water District (TRWD). Fort Worth’s water utility expects to pay an additional $6.5 million in 2025 due to a 3.35% rate hike planned by TRWD, primarily to fund the design of its Cedar Creek Wetlands water supply project.
Additionally, payments to the Trinity River Authority of Texas, which the city contracts to treat wastewater for two areas, are increasing by around $600,000 due to capital improvements at the authority’s treatment facilities.
Staffing and Operations
The proposed budget also includes $5 million for staff retention strategies, benefit costs, the city manager’s pay-for-performance compensation plan, and 13 new positions to meet increased regulatory requirements, address growth, and improve plant operations.
These investments in the water department’s workforce aim to ensure that Fort Worth can effectively manage its water and wastewater systems, while also attracting and retaining the skilled professionals needed to deliver reliable services.
Empowering Residents to Manage Water Costs
While the upcoming rate increase may be unavoidable, there are steps Fort Worth residents can take to help manage their water bills and reduce their overall usage.
One key strategy is to focus on water conservation during the winter quarter, which is used to determine the monthly wastewater charge for the upcoming year. By reducing water use for activities like lawn watering and irrigation during December, January, and February, residents can potentially lower their sewer bills for the entire year.
Additionally, residents can take advantage of the city’s online water usage tracking tools to monitor their consumption and identify any potential leaks or areas for improvement. The water department’s digital meters provide detailed usage data that can be accessed through a customer’s online account, allowing for more informed water management decisions.
For those struggling to pay their water bills, the city offers various assistance programs and payment plans. Residents should reach out to the water department to explore these options and ensure they can maintain access to this essential service.
Engaging the Community and Advocating for Change
As Fort Worth residents prepare for the upcoming rate increase, it’s important for the community to stay informed, engaged, and proactive in shaping the future of the city’s water and wastewater services.
The water department is actively seeking public input on the proposed rate structure, and residents have until August 24th to submit written comments. This is a crucial opportunity for residents to voice their concerns, ask questions, and advocate for solutions that prioritize affordability and sustainability.
Beyond the current rate increase, the Joint Action for Water blog encourages Fort Worth residents to continue engaging with local officials, attending public meetings, and joining advocacy efforts to ensure the city’s water and sanitation policies reflect the community’s needs and priorities. By working together, residents can help ensure that essential water services remain accessible, reliable, and environmentally responsible for years to come.
To stay up-to-date on the latest water and sanitation news and advocacy opportunities in Fort Worth, be sure to visit the Joint Action for Water website and subscribe to their newsletter. Together, we can build a more sustainable and equitable water future for all.
