Vienna council approves 4% water and sewer rate increase to accelerate infrastructure work

The Vienna Town Council on April 6 approved proposed FY27 water and sewer rates that include a 4% increase in volumetric charges to accelerate infrastructure investments. Director of Public Works told the council the plan increases water‑main replacement from about 1 mile per year to 2 miles per year starting in 2028 and maintains a sewer rehabilitation program of roughly 1 mile per year.

"In this rate study staff is recommending to increase the water main replacement rate…to replace water main at 2 miles a year starting in 2028," the director said, adding that the proposed rate also factors in borrowing for those capital investments. Council members discussed aligning commercial accounts with residential billing structure and scheduled targeted meetings with top commercial users.

Council member Ramakas and the director noted the proposed borrowing schedules use conservative payback assumptions and that future CIP work will explore 30–50 year bond terms to lower near‑term rate pressure. After discussion, the council voted unanimously to approve the rates and direct the town clerk to advertise a notice of intent to adopt water and sewer rates at the May 18, 2026 meeting.

The vote means the town will proceed with the advertised rate schedule that staff said is designed to increase investment while managing rate impacts through conservative financing assumptions. Residents and commercial customers should expect materials from staff and planned outreach meetings about the new structure and the timetable for replacement projects.