The transition from a flat rate for residential water to a metering system has been a long and complex process.
The final structure has not yet been determined, but the latest billing models, which will be presented at an open house next week, once again attempt to charge a fair rate for the service, for normal water consumption and for excess water use.
The two billing structures to be presented begin with a base rate for the municipal water service, followed by consumption rates for all water used.
This is a much better structure than the earlier proposal of a base rate which included a quantity of water, with charges only for the excess.
By billing for every drop of water, the municipality is providing an incentive for all water users to watch their consumption at all times. Those who want to keep their water costs low can save some money by dropping their water consumption. Those who have watered extensively in the past will have to change their ways or pay dearly for the privilege of excessive water use.
Earlier billing models penalized those who had high water use, but did not provide a financial incentive for conservation measures.
Still, no billing system is perfect and it is possible that the public will see ways in which the metering structure can be improved.
For this reason, we urge all water users to examine the plans which will be presented, to attend the open house and to provide their comments and feedback. The model selected will affect us all.
The quest for a fair and workable water metering structure is difficult and complex. While rates will change from time to time, we do not wish to see the billing structure revisited again.
It makes sense to move slowly and carefully on this project in order to get it done right the first time.
