Grand Prairie advances 4.5% water and wastewater rate increase to second reading

A city staff presentation and two independent cost‑of‑service studies led the Grand Prairie City Council on Jan. 6 to advance a proposed 4.5% increase in water and wastewater rates for fiscal year 2026.

The presenter for the utilities staff said the studies identified the revenue required to sustain operations and capital needs and recommended a 4.5% uniform increase for all rate classes, which staff proposed to take effect Feb. 1. The presenter summarized the residential impact as “just over $5,” for an average user and said the increase applies equally to multifamily and commercial/industrial classes.

Councilmembers asked about timing and comparability with neighboring cities. A councilmember requested that staff post comparison charts online so residents could see how Grand Prairie’s rates stack up with peer communities; staff agreed to include that information in the slide deck for the second reading.

After the presentation and a brief public‑hearing opportunity with no citizens stepping forward, Mayor Pro Tem moved to approve the ordinance on first reading and to set the second and final reading for the Jan. 20 council meeting. The motion was seconded; the council voted to carry the motion.

Why it matters: The change will increase utility bills for residents and businesses modestly while providing the revenue basis staff says is necessary to maintain operations and capital investments. The council directed staff to add comparative data and will vote on the final ordinance at its next meeting.

What’s next: Second and final reading is scheduled for Jan. 20, 2026.