Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Utilities Budget topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Manager warns of roughly $82,000 sewer bill hike tied to Philadelphia rate changes
Summary
Borough management reported a Philadelphia Water Department flow reanalysis will raise Narberth's sewer bill by an estimated $82,000 (about 47%), likely prompting a review of the 2027 budget and possible sewer rate adjustments.
The Narberth Borough Manager told council that an updated flow analysis by the Philadelphia Water Department — transmitted through Lower Merion Township, which treats Narberth's sanitary sewer flows — will increase Narberth's sewer billing by about $82,000, a roughly 47% rise over current sewer charges.
Manager's explanation: Philadelphia raised rates based on increased flows and influent measurements to the regional treatment plant; Lower Merion pays Philadelphia and then bills Narberth for its proportionate share. The Manager said the borough will negotiate with Lower Merion and "work with them as best we can to soften this blow," but warned the borough will likely need to consider raising sewer rates in 2027 because the borough does not conduct quarterly billing and cannot implement mid‑year rate increases.
Council and staff noted this is a substantial budgetary impact that staff will analyze further and communicate to residents. The Manager said there will be follow‑up discussions with Lower Merion and the borough will plan for the budgetary implications when preparing the 2027 budget.
Next steps: administration will pursue negotiations with Lower Merion, refine budget projections, and return with options for council as part of budget planning.
