Findlay City Council Water & Sewer Committee Votes on New Water Rates
On Thursday, November 9, the Findlay City Council Water & Sewer Committee endorsed the Administration’s plan to raise water rates starting January 1, 2024. This decision, while not mandated by Ordinance, underscores the importance of keeping the Council informed about the reasons behind this necessary change in water rates.
The new inside usage rate is set to be $4.01 per 100 cubic feet. For a typical two-person household, this translates to an annual cost increase of around $70 (base rate usage) for those on inside water rates. “Every penny our residents earn is valuable,” said Findlay Service-Safety Director Rob Martin.
Why the Water Rate Increase is Necessary
Water rates have remained unchanged since 2011, but during this period, expenses have surged. Water treatment chemical costs rose over 40% in 2022 and have stayed high. The cost of materials like pipes, hydrants, and other components have similarly increased by 25%-40%. According to the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (OEPA), Ohio municipalities have witnessed an average annual increase of nearly 4% since 1997.
Even with these rising costs, Findlay has managed to keep its water bills relatively low. Had the City followed the State’s trend, the rates would be 10% higher than the current proposal.
Ensuring High-Quality Water and Services
Maintaining the existing High-quality water plant and services takes investments in routine maintenance and capital improvements. In 2023, the Operating Budget was approximately $9.7 million, while Projected Revenue stood at $8.73 million. Since 2019, the Findlay Water Department has delayed over $6.6 million in necessary capital improvements to stay solvent. They have also invested nearly $1 million from American Rescue Plan Act Funds into vital updates, such as Generator and CO2 Tank replacements.
Findlay Water Department’s Financial Strategy
The Water Fund operates as an Enterprise Fund, which means it’s self-sustaining and separate from the City’s General Fund. Despite climbing material, labor, and maintenance costs, the Findlay Water Department has managed to maintain a minimum balance of nearly $1.5 million, as required by City Ordinance and OEPA Regulation. This financial discipline allowed the City to complete the essential Water Transmitter Project before making any water rates adjustments.
Future Plans and Sustainability
The rate increase is not just about meeting current demands but also preparing for significant future investments. For example, the water plant will be 100 years old in 2031, and the Administration is planning ahead for necessary upgrades.
Moving forward, an Annual Rate Review Process will be implemented. This process will evaluate operational costs, the required reserve balance, capital needs for infrastructure maintenance and system growth, debt policies, and short-term priorities—all to ensure the long-term Sustainability of the Findlay Water Department.
Commitment to Affordable and High-Quality Water
“The City of Findlay recognizes the immense value of our water treatment and distribution system,” stated Rob Martin. “To continue providing this essential service at the lowest cost, we must regularly evaluate the sustainability of our Water Fund and make necessary adjustments.”
Mayor Christina Muryn emphasized that the City is not aiming to sell the Water Treatment Plant. There have been misconceptions about selling surplus water to surrounding communities, but the City’s focus remains on prioritizing existing users.
Conclusion
To stay updated on the new water rates and other related information, residents are encouraged to visit www.FindlayOhio.gov. The ongoing commitment to high-quality, affordable water continues to be a top priority for Findlay’s Administration and the Findlay Water Department.
