Hillsboro Water's quest to modernize how water rates are structured draws on the collective wisdom of the Community Advisory Panel (CAP), a group with a patchwork of backgrounds and experiences true to the city's diversity. The panel, a dozen strong, offers feedback on rate proposals that could sway customers' bills in 2025 and 2026, according to a recent report by Hillsboro Water.
The Willamette Water Supply System (WWSS) needs funding for maintenance and water treatment. To cover these costs, a mix of federal loans, grants, and bonds is being considered, with a planned average rate increase of about 6%. The CAP is exploring options and plans to test a new program over the next two years to change how charges are applied, especially for Single-Family and Multi-Family Residential customers, while ensuring the city can maintain its water supply.
One key recommendation is to keep the fixed charge stable for the next few years to encourage water-saving habits. The CAP suggests that people are more motivated by changes in their variable usage charges than by a higher fixed fee. Additionally, a new tier will be introduced to reward customers who use 4 ccf or less of water per month, which will likely lead to higher bills for those who use more water.
Revising charges isn't just for Single-Family homes; the CAP is also addressing billing for Multi-Family complexes. They plan to increase the Peaking Charge to manage water use during hot weather when demand is higher. This change aims to prevent sharp increases in the Winter Average charge and encourages tenants to conserve water during peak periods, helping balance water usage and costs.
Hillsboro Water responded positively to the CAP's suggestions. The panel's work will guide the city's water rate changes for 2025 and 2026, affecting how residents use water and manage their bills. Their recommendations will help Hillsboro focus more on conservation, with the details reflected in the upcoming utility rate plans.
