City officials adjust water and sewer rates to sustain infrastructure funding

The Watuppa Water Board meeting held on April 10, 2025, focused on critical discussions regarding water and sewer rate adjustments for Fall River residents. The board announced an annual increase of $25.97 for the average household, translating to a 2.9% rise in total water and sewer bills. This adjustment aims to ensure the sustainability of the water and sewer enterprise fund, which has faced challenges due to long-term debt and historical underinvestment in infrastructure.

Board members expressed concerns about the financial stability of the system, emphasizing the importance of following recommendations from consultants to build up stabilization funds and retained earnings. They highlighted that neglecting these recommendations could jeopardize the system's future viability.

Additionally, the board discussed the impact of recent cuts to federal funding and grants, which have historically supported water and sewer projects. Over the past six to seven years, Fall River has received approximately $75 to $80 million in grant funding, significantly alleviating costs for ratepayers. However, with many funding sources drying up, the board warned that the city may need to rely more heavily on local funding, potentially leading to infrastructure deterioration if not managed properly.

The meeting underscored the ongoing challenges facing the Watuppa Water Board as it navigates financial pressures and seeks to maintain essential services for the community. The board's proactive approach to rate adjustments and infrastructure funding will be crucial in ensuring the long-term health of Fall River's water and sewer systems.