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City Council adopts 3% water and sewer rate increase, effective Nov. 1
Summary
The council unanimously adopted Ordinance No. 1509-25, raising potable water and sewer rates by 3%. Finance Director Ted Beeson said the average bill for 4,100 gallons will rise about $2.05; the increase is intended to support $20 million in capital projects and to pace smaller annual increases rather than larger retroactive hikes.
At its Oct. 27 meeting the Zephyrhills City Council adopted Ordinance No. 1509-25, a 3% increase in water and wastewater rates, following a public hearing and presentation by Finance Director Ted Beeson.
What was approved: Beeson said the increase is modest and was budgeted; the average residential water bill (4,100 gallons) will increase by $2.05 per billing period under the ordinance. Beeson told the council the increase helps fund capital-intensive water and sewer work included in the budget and that staff prefers incremental annual increases rather than a larger one-time hike.
Public process: Staff said the city advertised the proposed rate changes on utility bills in advance of the two council meetings required for adoption. No members of the public spoke during the public hearing. The ordinance passed unanimously following a motion and second.
Why it matters: The increase aims to keep water and sewer funds solvent for planned capital projects and to spread cost impacts across multiple years. Council members voiced support for periodic review of costs and efficiencies to avoid automatic, perpetual increases where avoidable.
Next steps: The ordinance takes effect Nov. 1, 2025; staff will continue cost-control reviews and report as needed to council.
