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Ballston Spa trustees approve water, sewer rate increases tied to budget
Summary
Following adoption of the fiscal 2025–26 budget, the board approved a package of water and sewer rate changes that raise system rates and change the in‑village/outsider rate structure.
The Village of Ballston Spa Board of Trustees voted April 28 to increase water and sewer rates as part of the fiscal 2025–26 budget package.
The motion adopted by the board directs a 6.5% rate increase for all water usage and a 6.5% increase for all sewer usage. The motion also implemented a 15% rate reduction for in‑village sewer only and a 7.5% increase for in‑village water only, and included procedural clarifications moving storm sewer accounting between funds.
The rate changes were discussed during public comment. One resident who identified himself as Lawton urged the board to set an in‑village base water charge near $85 per six-month billing period to better reflect cost of production; other commenters asked that the outside‑village rate be set as a concrete dollar amount rather than a multiple of the in‑village rate. "Water is a utility. It should not cost the municipality money or make money for its residents," Lawton told trustees.
Trustees said the board weighed regional comparators, operating costs and forthcoming growth in customer base (including potential new development in the Milltown area) when approving the changes. Trustee commentary indicated officials expect some near‑term capital spending and possible automation/metering upgrades that will increase system costs in future years.
The motion carried on roll call (board members recorded in roll-call discussion said they would vote yes); a board member recorded earlier as Trustee Daskin said she would vote yes and the roll-call recorded multiple yes votes leading to approval.
Why it matters: Water and sewer rate changes affect household and business bills and finance ongoing operations, meter upgrades and planned water‑system expansion. Board members said the increases are intended to reduce subsidization by the general fund and to position the utility for future capital needs.
What happens next: Staff said water bills and new rates will be reflected in the June 1 billing cycle; the village office is preparing billing and notices to customers. The board also asked staff and the revenue advisory group to continue developing longer-term rate options and alternatives.
