FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Residents on City sewer service will see a planned rate increase beginning July 1, in order to continue improving the City’s aging sewer system and to remain in compliance with federal Clean Water Act regulations. The City of Springfield contracts with City Utilities for sanitary sewer services billing, so customers will notice this change on their August CU bills.
Sewer rates are based on water consumption calculated by averaging water usage for January, February and March, to avoid summer irrigation, car washing, filling up pools, etc. This is because the majority of residents’ water goes down drains and toilets and ends up in the wastewater system. The City’s Clean Water Services division of the Department of Environmental Services charges a minimum customer charge and an additional rate for each 100 cubic feet (CCF) of water used. One CCF equals 748 gallons.
An average residential customer uses 6 CCF and currently receives a bill for $32.36 per month. Following the July 1, 2019 effective date, a residential user of 6 CCF per month will receive a bill for $34.20.
The 2019 increase is the third in a series of increases approved by City Council in November 2016. This rate structure will last through 2020 and is consistent with the recommendations of a community stakeholder group appointed to consider changes to Springfield’s wastewater system, including rates.
For more information about sewer infrastructure improvements, visit springfieldmo.gov/cleanwater or call Sewer Revenue Technician Kristy Haynes at 417-864-1924.
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Media contact: Director of Public Information & Civic Engagement Cora Scott at 417-864-1009 or 417-380-3352.