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Smyth County adopts 5% water and 10% sewer rate increases, effective with July ordinance
Summary
The county adopted a 5% increase to water rates and a 10% increase to sewer rates, effective in the July ordinance reading and billed in August to give customers time to adjust; commissioners said sewer remains in deficit and needs revenue for capital projects.
County staff presented a draft ordinance proposing a 5% increase in water rates and a 10% increase in sewer rates. Staff said water operations are broadly covering costs while sewer funds are running in the red and need the larger increase to move toward breakeven and to prepare for future capital needs.
Commissioners asked about the timeline and customer impact; staff said the ordinance is effective July 1 in the draft but billing will reflect the increases in August to give customers lead time. Several board members emphasized the need to plan for longer‑term sewer capital projects rather than rely on general fund transfers. The board voted unanimously to adopt the rate schedule as presented.
"We just went with 5% because water's paying for itself right now. Sewer is in the hole," a staff member said while explaining the recommended percentages. The board asked staff to monitor revenue and bring options for capital planning and potential dedicated crews for sewer operations when appropriate.
