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Kings Mountain staff propose 10% water and sewer rate increase, residential minimums to rise modestly
Summary
City staff proposed a 10% across-the-board increase for water and sewer rates in FY2026-27, raising the typical residential monthly minimum roughly $1.85 for water and $2.20 for sewer; staff said the increase is needed to fund $3 million in water/sewer capital and to catch up after years without increases.
Finance Director Jana Williams told council that the Water and Sewer Fund—budgeted at about $12.7 million—would require a proposed 10% across-the-board rate increase to better meet operating and capital needs. Williams said capital outlay for the fund in FY2026-27 is approximately $3 million and that the City has not increased these fees since FY2016-17 prior to FY2023-24, leaving a need to ‘catch up’ to sustain and reinvest in the system.
Staff estimated the residential monthly minimums would increase about $1.85 for water and about $2.20 for sewer. Williams noted even with the increase the City’s rates remain competitive with surrounding communities but cautioned additional increases may be necessary in future years if revenues continue to lag infrastructure needs.
Council received a line-by-line review of divisions funded by the Water and Sewer Fund, including water resources, system maintenance and wastewater treatment. The proposed rate change will be considered alongside the overall budget during the public hearing scheduled for May 26, 2026.
