DeKalb County introduces progressive water assistance programs amid rising rates

The DeKalb County Special Called PWI Committee Meeting held on January 30, 2025, focused on the financial implications of water and sewer services for residential customers, alongside initiatives aimed at assisting economically disadvantaged residents.

The meeting began with a presentation detailing the typical residential water and sewer bill for DeKalb County customers. Currently, a typical bill for a household using approximately 4,000 gallons of water per month is around $70. The presentation outlined projected increases, estimating a 10% annual rate hike over the next decade. Comparisons were made with other jurisdictions, where the average bill stands at about $67, indicating that DeKalb County's rates are slightly above this average.

Affordability was a significant topic, with the annual cost of water and sewer services measured against the median household income. For DeKalb County, this figure is approximately 1.1%, which is below the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) threshold of 3-4.5% for affordability. Projections for the coming years suggest that this percentage will remain below the EPA's standards, indicating that DeKalb County's water services are relatively affordable compared to other jurisdictions.

Following the financial overview, the discussion shifted to the DeKalb Cares program, aimed at supporting residents facing economic challenges. The county has collaborated with organizations such as Water Watch and the NAACP Legal Defense Fund to develop a series of assistance programs. These initiatives include a customer discount program for income-eligible residents, a customer assistance fund supported by voluntary contributions from ratepayers, and extended payment plans allowing up to seven years for customers to settle back bills.

Additionally, the meeting introduced a customer amnesty program, which would forgive back bills for eligible residents who maintain consistent payments for a year. The county also plans to continue funding for the repair of private residential infrastructure, addressing issues that lead to accumulating bills due to unaddressed repairs.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to transition certain functions to an external Office of the Customer Advocate, enhancing support for residents in need. Overall, the discussions highlighted DeKalb County's proactive approach to managing water service rates while ensuring assistance for vulnerable populations.