Toledo City Council evaluates new sewer rate structure amid budget challenges

Toledo's Water Quality Committee meeting on May 28, 2025, spotlighted a proposed increase in sewer rates tied to the implementation of a winter sewer averaging model. The discussion revealed that adopting this model could lead to a 7.47% hike in sewer rates, impacting residential customers differently based on their water usage.

The proposed winter sewer average aims to adjust rates based on the average consumption of 5.8 CCF (hundred cubic feet) per month. While this model could benefit higher water users by capping their charges, it poses a potential surcharge for those who consume less. For instance, average customers could see their monthly bills rise from $33.88 to approximately $36.41, translating to an increase of about $2.50.

The committee highlighted that around 40% of Toledo's residential customers would either break even or pay slightly more under the new model, while a significant portion of higher-volume users would receive discounts. This raises concerns about equity, particularly for vulnerable demographics, such as seniors and low-income households, who may end up subsidizing the costs for heavier users.

In response to these challenges, the committee introduced several solutions aimed at helping customers manage their water bills. These include a new myTOL portal for monitoring usage, the option for irrigation meters, and a budget billing system designed to smooth out seasonal spikes in water usage.

Councilman Saron expressed skepticism about the practicality of the irrigation meter option, which could require significant upfront costs for homeowners. The committee's presentation underscored the complexities of the proposed rate changes and their implications for Toledo residents, emphasizing the need for careful consideration as they move forward.