City Water rates to increase by $2.50

V. Hugh Lewis II/Jefferson Jimplecute

Base water rates for the City of Jefferson will increase by $2.50 come February 2024, as Council opted to adjust the rates due to increased water costs from NETMWD and increased operating costs of the water department.

“Costs have increased 28% over the last nine years,” said Jefferson Mayor Rob Baker. “August 2015 was the last adjustment, and that was for the water/sewer project.”

Ward 3 Alderman Robin Moore was against the rates, but also did not offer any alternatives.

Baker said it was a choice between a $2.50 increase or higher property taxes. He also reminded Council that NETMWD had indicated they would be increasing rates again next year.

“I’m in favor of looking at the rates each year, but not necessarily adjusting them each time,” said Baker.

The average water user in Jefferson uses 5,000 gallons of water each month. The new rates are expected to increase that bill by $13.05 per month.

The City also adjusted some of the service related fees for the water department including:

• 3/4 Water Tap, was $400, now $600

• 1 inch water tap, was $450, now $700

• New Service Deposit, was $25, now $125

• Reconnect Fee, was $25, now $35

• Late Fee, was 20%, now 25%

• Returned Check Fee, was $30, now $40.

The City has to give 90 days notice to customers before increasing the rate, thus the February implementation.

Council approved the increase 5-1, with Moore voting against.

There are three town hall meetings coming up in November as Council, Quiet Zone, and Planning and Zoning, are all seeking the public’s input.

The City will discuss a new City  Hall, as well as temporarily moving to the Primary School campus next fall. Baker said this was an opportunity for citizens to give feedback and offer alternatives. The Town Hall is set for November 1, at the Visitor’s Center.

The Quiet Zone committee will give an update on what they’ve learned so far at 5p November 2, at the Visitors Center. The group is also seeking additional members. Those interested, have until November 17 to submit an application to join. Applications are available at City  Hall, and on the City’s website.

Planning and Zoning will hold a Public Hearing at 6p November 2 at the Visitors Center to hear input on the proposed Historic District. The new zone designates the area approved in 1971 by the National Registry of Historic Places, but was never adopted by the City. No restrictions are included in this initial zoning. 

The Strategic Plan championed by Moore and being created by A&M’s Texas Target Communities will hold a public input meeting from 5:30-7p Monday at the Primary School.