Council approves 2026 utility rate adjustments with reporting requirements for affordability programs

Columbus City Council approved an amendment and then passed a package of utility rate ordinances to take effect Jan. 1, 2026. The package updates water, sanitary sewer, stormwater and electric service rates and restructures several charges to better align with cost of service, adds a uniform commercial rate and updates capacity fees.

Councilmember Weich, who led the rules and policy committee discussion, emphasized the need for investments to protect water capacity and infrastructure in a fast-growing region, pointing to long-term capital projects including a planned fourth water treatment plant. The department said increases are necessary to fund projects such as lead line replacement, the New Home Road water plant and other critical upgrades.

Recognizing affordability concerns, Councilmember Weich offered and council adopted an amendment requiring Columbus Water and Power to produce a report in six months that includes delinquency rates, progress toward doubling enrollment in low-income discount programs, a community engagement plan to reach multifamily and master-metered residents, analysis of high-capacity users and potential capital-plan modifications to mitigate future rate pressure. Department staff committed to expanded outreach, tabling events and prioritizing enrollment support for seniors and qualifying households.

Council described estimated household impacts: an example city resident using an estimated 165 gallons per day would see a combined water and sewer increase of roughly $10.48 per month ($125.80 annually); low-income customers would see a smaller net increase due to expanded discounts. Councilmembers urged the department to set measurable outreach goals and to return with progress reports so council can reconsider capital plans if discount sign‑ups lag.

The amended water ordinance and companion sewer, stormwater and electric ordinances passed by roll-call votes.