Baltimore County households are in for slightly higher water tabs this summer, with a roughly 7.25% rate hike taking effect July 1. For a typical home with the smallest meter, now paying about $40 a month, that works out to about $2.90 more each month. Exact increases will still depend on meter size and how much water is used, but the higher charges will start showing up on July statements.
Board of Estimates signs off
The Baltimore City Board of Estimates signed off on the 7.25% increase for county accounts this week, a move that will change quarterly water statements starting July 1, according to The Baltimore Banner. Under the regional billing arrangement, the city has the authority to set and apply the utility’s rate schedule to county customers.
Why county customers are on the hook
Baltimore City owns and operates the Baltimore Metropolitan Water and Wastewater System and supplies treated water across a multi-county service area. The Board of Estimates sets the utility’s rate schedule that county billing relies on, per materials from the Comptroller’s office. The system serves roughly 1.8 million customers regionwide, and costs are divided among jurisdictions under long-standing agreements.
How billing works
Baltimore County residents receive separate water and sewer bills. Water charges are billed quarterly by Baltimore City, while sewer charges typically show up on county property tax statements, county officials told The Baltimore Banner. County spokespeople said the increase reflects higher treatment, chemical, and labor costs that are being passed through under the regional arrangement.
Where to find help
Baltimore County does not operate a dedicated water bill assistance program. Residents who need help can contact the 211 Maryland Information Network to look for state and nonprofit supports, payment plans, and local referrals, according to 211 Maryland. Customers with account questions can also reach the Baltimore County Department of Public Works and Transportation for billing details and meter size information.
What to watch next
Officials say the higher rates are meant to cover rising operating costs and capital work on aging pipes, as outlined in materials from the Comptroller’s office. Residents are being urged to review upcoming statements for meter size and infrastructure charges that can change overall totals. Look for the first adjusted quarterly bills after July 1, and check the county and city websites for full rate tables and contact information, even if that is not anyone’s idea of fun summer reading.
