In a recent workshop held at Georgetown City Hall, officials outlined significant proposed rate increases for water and wastewater services, reflecting the city's rapid growth and the need for enhanced utility operations. The discussions revealed a proposed 9% increase in water rates and a 12% increase in wastewater rates, driven by a comprehensive cost of service study aimed at ensuring financial stability and adequate reserves.

City representatives emphasized the necessity of these adjustments, citing rising capital improvement costs and the expanding demands of a fast-growing community. The proposed budget anticipates an increase of approximately $12.8 million in revenue from these rate hikes, which translates to an estimated monthly increase of $12 for households using 6,000 gallons of water and $13.40 for those using 10,000 gallons.

In addition to the rate increases, the city plans to establish a standalone control center for electric and water operations, which will require additional staffing. A proposal to add 25 new positions in regulatory conservation and operations was also discussed, aimed at maintaining system efficiency and compliance with regulations.

The electric utility sector is also facing changes, with a proposed 2% rate increase for customers, the first since 2019. This adjustment is necessary to manage the growing energy demands from new businesses in the area, including significant economic development projects that have recently chosen Georgetown as their home. The city is committed to enhancing its energy efficiency offerings and maintaining robust system management to support this growth.

As Georgetown continues to evolve, these proposed changes reflect a proactive approach to managing the city's utilities, ensuring that they can meet the needs of its residents and businesses while maintaining a focus on sustainability and efficiency. The discussions at the workshop set the stage for future developments in the city’s utility services, highlighting the importance of strategic planning in the face of rapid growth.