Arvada Council examines water and wastewater rate increase scenarios for future planning

Arvada City Council has taken significant steps to address the community's water and wastewater infrastructure needs during its meeting on July 1, 2025. The council discussed projected rate increases for water and wastewater services, emphasizing the importance of maintaining and upgrading aging infrastructure to prevent future crises.

A key focus of the meeting was the projected increase in water bills, which could see a rise from $74 in 2021 to approximately $145 by 2028 if fully funded capital improvement projects are implemented. Council members expressed concerns about the accuracy of the average water usage figures, currently set at 95,000 gallons per year for a typical family of four. Some members suggested that this figure may not reflect actual household consumption, urging for a review of real billing data to ensure projections are realistic.

The council also examined the wastewater fund, where a minimal capital improvement plan (CIP) would result in a variable rate increase of 8%, while a fully funded scenario could lead to an 11.3% increase. This discussion highlighted the potential for increased sanitary sewer backups if critical projects are not completed, stressing the need for timely infrastructure upgrades.

In addition to water and wastewater, the council addressed stormwater management, proposing a 6% increase to fund essential drainage improvement projects. This increase would provide approximately $600,000 annually, which is deemed necessary to address resident concerns about flooding and drainage issues.

Council members acknowledged the broader context of aging infrastructure faced by neighboring communities, reinforcing the need for proactive measures to avoid emergency situations similar to those experienced in other cities. The council plans to continue reviewing and refining its infrastructure funding strategies, ensuring that Arvada remains prepared for future growth and environmental challenges.

As the council moves forward, the emphasis on data-driven decision-making and community engagement will be crucial in shaping the future of Arvada's water and wastewater services.