During a recent government meeting, discussions centered on the calculation of residential sewer rates, highlighting a shift from an averaging method back to a model based on actual water meter readings. This change, implemented last year, has sparked conversations among residents who are advocating for a return to the previous averaging approach.

The current system caps sewer charges at 10,000 gallons of water consumption, meaning that while residents pay for both water and sewer for the first 10,000 gallons, any usage beyond that incurs only water charges. This model aims to ensure that the utility can cover costs without overburdening customers, as it relies on actual consumption data rather than estimates.

Proponents of the actual reading method argue that it minimizes the risk of undercharging for sewer services, as the volume of wastewater cannot be accurately measured without advanced metering technology. They noted that the average residential customer typically uses around 4,000 gallons of water monthly, while those with outdoor watering needs may exceed 10,000 gallons. The concern with the averaging method is that it could lead to significant underpayment for sewer services, especially if customers experience leaks during winter months, which would inflate their average usage.

The discussion also touched on the importance of water conservation, particularly in regions like West Texas, where water scarcity is a pressing issue. Officials emphasized that pricing is the most effective tool for encouraging responsible water use among residents. They expressed that maintaining a sewer calculation based on actual usage, rather than an average, supports conservation efforts by incentivizing lower water consumption.

Additionally, the meeting explored the potential for residents to install separate irrigation meters, which could further delineate domestic water use from irrigation, thereby eliminating sewer charges for outdoor watering. However, this option would involve upfront costs and logistical considerations, such as plumbing requirements.

The council remains open to revisiting the sewer rate calculation methods in the future, depending on community feedback and policy direction.