West Whiteland reviews sewer rate and tapping-fee study; transition for commercial billing proposed

West Whiteland Township officials reviewed a May 22 memorandum summarizing a sewer rate and tapping-fee study presented earlier in May and discussed next steps, including a possible transition of commercial customers from consumption-based billing to a flat EDU (equivalent dwelling unit) structure.

Pam Gural-Bear, who reviewed the memorandum, said the consulting engineer’s recommendations include updating the Township’s sewer tapping fee to reflect current system valuation and infrastructure investment. The proposed changes are intended to align commercial billing with how residential customers are charged and to ensure long-term service sustainability.

Vice Chair Rajesh Kumbhardare said he supports moving commercial users to an EDU-based rate to make charges equitable with residential customers but warned that rates and tapping fees will need to increase to maintain the system. He urged staff to explain clearly to residents why any increase is necessary and to provide examples—he said municipalities that sell sewer systems to private operators sometimes see large customer bill increases.

Staff did not present a finalized rate ordinance or fee schedule at the meeting. Board members asked for public-facing materials and comparative scenarios showing how different rate structures and tapping-fee updates would affect commercial and residential customers. No vote or formal action to change rates occurred at this meeting; the item remains under follow-up for staff and consultants.

The Board did not set a public hearing or adoption date at the meeting; subsequent steps will depend on staff analysis and any outreach or hearings the Board directs.