Starting this Labor Day, Philadelphia residents will see a notable uptick in their water bills, with a 9.4% increase coming into effect, according to city officials. The new rates, decided by the independent Philadelphia Water, Sewer, and Storm Water Rate Board, will mean customers should expect to pay on average $9 more each month, as reported by NBC Philadelphia.
This adjustment pushes the average monthly water bill to $89.42. In addition to the current increase, residents are advised to prepare for another financial hit, with a 5.5% increase in rates scheduled for the following September, as per a report by 6abc. The Water Department's need for additional revenue was highlighted, citing the necessity to maintain services, ensure high-quality water and services for all residents, critical infrastructure investments, and mitigating depleted financial reserves due to the pandemic and other costs.
The decision to raise rates comes after the Philadelphia Water Department cited the need for additional funding to support its operations. Initially, an even larger increase was proposed to address the department’s infrastructure and financial health. However, after review, the Rate Board approved a smaller increase while still authorizing enough funds “to provide safe and reliable service,” according to a news release from the department. With the additional revenue, the Water Department aims to replenish reserves that "have reached critical levels due to COVID-19 impacts and other costs," as noted by CBS News Philadelphia.
