Columbus Department of Public Utilities proposes $866 million operating budget, highlights rate-funded capital and low-income aid

Deputy Director John Lee presented the Department of Public Utilities’ proposed 2025 operating budget to the Columbus City Council’s budget hearing, saying the plan totals $866,000,000 and is about 6% higher than the 2024 budget. The budget, Lee said, funds four divisions — water, sewers and drains, stormwater and power — and pays debt service tied to a multiyear capital plan.

“These operating dollars will allow us to continue fulfilling DPU’s mission of providing essential utility services to residents and businesses in the Columbus region,” Lee said during the presentation. He told council members the department’s capital plan totals about $6,000,000,000 and that debt service accounts for a significant share of operating costs in several divisions.

Why it matters: The budget balances near-term operating needs with ongoing, large capital projects that will increase future debt service costs and influence utility rates. Council members pressed the department on affordability, sustainability and the timeline for projects such as the city’s fourth water plant.

Key budget details and priorities

- Total DPU operating budget for 2025: $866,000,000 (6% above 2024). Lee said the department budgets more than 1,400 full-time positions across divisions and is adding personnel in several areas.

- Director’s Office: $62,000,000 (reported as a 307% increase above 2024 in the presentation); Lee said…