New rates take effect May 1 to address rising costs, infrastructure needs

Beginning May 1, Water Services customers will be charged new rates on their water usage and wastewater (sanitary sewer) services. On average, most residential households will experience an increase in their combined (water, wastewater and stormwater) bill of approximately $9 a month, or about 14 percent. The increase in rates was approved by the City Council to reflect rising costs, expanded investment in new facilities, the replacement of aging infrastructure and compliance with federal government mandates for upgrades to sewer systems.

The need for major infrastructure improvements was highlighted by the number of water main breaks experienced in 2011. Although all of the breaks have been repaired, it is important that the rest of the aging infrastructure be addressed to reduce the number of service interruptions.

Kansas City Water Services continues to provide a great value for both residential and wholesale customers. In fact, our water and sewer rates are comparable to other area providers.  In addition, the quality of our drinking water has consistently received high marks from third parties.

Over the last several decades, water and wastewater rates have not kept pace with inflation. Water Services must address repairs and system replacements of aging infrastructure while at the same time implementing the Overflow Control Program, which is estimated to cost $2.4 billion in 2008 dollars.

This year Water Services is undergoing a number of changes to increase the department's efficiency and effectiveness including increasing the use of private contractors to address infrastructure breaks quickly. Water Services is also developing a new master plan identifying key water infrastructure needs, and a number of accelerated maintenance programs are underway.

For more detailed information about rate increases or for a guide on how to read and understand your Water Services bill, visit www.kcmo.org/waterbill101.

For more information, contact Colleen Doctorian, public information officer for the Water Services Department at 816-513-0232.

The Kansas City, Mo., Water Services Department maintains and operates water collection, processing and distribution systems, stormwater management and control systems, and waste water collection and processing systems for residential and business customers in Kansas City and for wholesale customers in the Kansas City region. Operation is funded by fees charged to customers based on their use of products and services.

Follow Kansas City Water Services on Facebook under Kansas City Water Services and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/kcmowater.