Coconut Creek proposes 9% water and wastewater rate increase for 2025

Coconut Creek residents should prepare for potential water and wastewater rate increases as the city proposes a rise of up to 9%, effective June 1, 2025. This adjustment is necessary to cover increased costs from Broward County, which supplies the city's water and treats its wastewater. The county's blended rate increase took effect last October, prompting the city to reassess its own rates.

Finance Director Peta-Gay Lake highlighted several factors driving these increases, including rising inflation and significant operational costs. Notably, the cost of sludge disposal has surged by 10%, electric costs have risen by 13%, and chemical prices have skyrocketed by as much as 119%. As Coconut Creek does not operate its own treatment plants, it relies on Broward County for these services, while the city is responsible for maintaining nearly 300 miles of water and wastewater infrastructure.

To ensure the reliability of these systems, ongoing investments are crucial. As infrastructure ages, proactive upgrades are essential to prevent costly failures in the future. Residents are encouraged to engage in discussions about these proposed changes at a budget town hall meeting scheduled for this Tuesday. The city commission will review the proposed increases during their meeting on April 24 at City Hall, starting at 7 PM.

Coconut Creek's proposed rate increase is in line with regional trends, as neighboring cities have also implemented similar or even higher adjustments due to comparable challenges. Residents can take proactive steps to mitigate the impact of these increases by adopting water conservation practices, with tips available at coconutcreek.net/waterconservation.