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Smyth County adopts 5% water and 10% sewer rate increases to shore up utility finances
Summary
Board approved a 5% increase in water rates and a 10% increase in sewer rates, effective in the coming billing cycle; staff said water is solvent while sewer runs a deficit and noted the change follows consultant recommendations.
The Smyth County Board voted unanimously to raise water rates by 5% and sewer rates by 10% to address utility finances and operational needs. Staff told the board the recommended increases would take effect in the July billing schedule with bills reflecting the changes in August.
A county staff member explained the timeline to the board: "We say effective July 1. In reality, it's effective the July reading, which is, what, 3rd week of July. So it'll be the August, the bills that are due early August just to help people out." The board discussed consultant recommendations that had suggested a higher water increase; commissioners noted water currently shows a modest surplus while sewer is operating at a deficit and will need additional revenue to cover operations and future capital needs. The board approved the ordinance as presented and directed staff to plan for the operating and capital implications.
