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Officials explain recent change to water and sewer billing and why rates rose
Summary
Town staff explained that recent changes to water/sewer billing follow the Aqueduct acquisition and a water‑department budget approved at town meeting; billing frequency consolidated and rate increases reflect debt service and system investments, staff said.
Town officials used the manager’s and chair’s reports to explain recent changes in how water and sewer are billed and why customers are seeing higher charges. Staff said the water and sewer bills mailed recently cover a longer billing period and that billing frequency will move from four aqueduct bills per year to two town bills a year; water‑department budget changes approved at last year’s town meeting prompted higher rates to support debt service and planned capital improvements.
Manager noted the new water budget "was going to double the water rates" and that calls to staff reflect residents’ frustration. He asked residents not to direct frustration at front‑line staff and offered to talk individually with customers who have questions about their bills. Chair and other board members said they will review communications and consider a rate card that prioritizes conservation and supports development. Tax and water deadlines were also restated: town tax bills due May 1 by 4:30 p.m.; water/sewer bills due in early June.
