Board adopts water and sewer ordinance updates, approves 3% rate increase

The Greene County Board of Supervisors voted to adopt amendments to Chapter 31 (Water & Sewers) that include a 3% rate increase and multiple billing‑rule updates. Miss Hetka, the staff presenter, told the board the “major points are 3% rate increase” and said the ordinance will add language allowing staff to adjust water bills as well as sewer bills for customers who report leaks and meet review standards.

During the public hearing no one had signed up in advance, but the chair allowed a late in‑person/Zoom comment by Fred Turk, who asked whether the county had received water and sewer financial records requested earlier so the board could fully evaluate any increase. James Higgins, who identified himself as from Barbersville, raised state action on HB 422, noting that “on April 8 Governor Spanberger signed Virginia bill HB 422, title ‘water utilities, prohibition of multiple rate increases within 3 year period for water utilities,’” and warned the board to consider potential implications. Staff responded that the proposed 3% annual increase is part of the financial model to keep rates aligned with inflation and operating costs.

Board members emphasized trying to limit burden on residents not connected to public water and voted to adopt the ordinance as presented. The motion to adopt carried by roll call vote.