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Bexley to pass through Columbus wholesale increases for water and sewer; council discusses advocacy
Summary
Council heard a second reading on water and sewer rates that reflect Columbus’ wholesale increases (water +18%, sewer +8%). Bexley plans to pass through Columbus’ increase without an internal rate add and to coordinate with other master‑metered communities on advocacy.
Council on Dec. 9 reviewed proposed water and sewer rate changes that reflect wholesale increases imposed by the City of Columbus.
Sponsor Councilmember Saad said Columbus is increasing the wholesale water rate by 18% and the sewer rate by 8% for 2026; Bexley is proposing to pass those increases through to customers but not to raise Bexley’s internal portion beyond prior practice. Saad said the mayor has been working with other municipal leaders to advocate with Columbus on behalf of master‑metered communities.
Administration noted a differentiated impact for master‑metered suburbs and said they are forming a consortium to present benchmarking and equity information to Columbus. The mayor said Columbus City Council already approved the increase and that Bexley’s options are limited, but that staff will pursue advocacy and seek data to support further negotiations.
Council took the item for additional reading; there were no public speakers. The proposed rates are part of ordinance 33‑25 and will be considered again at a subsequent meeting.
