Water Rate Hikes Proposed for Philadelphia Residents

Philadelphia's water infrastructure is crucial for city management.

News Summary

The Philadelphia Water Department proposes increasing water, sewer, and stormwater rates, starting September 2025. An 11.7% hike will affect bills, followed by another 5.9% in 2026. Residents can express their views during public hearings this April. Assistance programs are being expanded to support those affected. It is vital for citizens to voice their opinions to influence the final decisions on these rate changes.

Philadelphia Residents May Face Water Rate Hikes: Here’s What You Need to Know

In the City of Brotherly Love, the Philadelphia Water Department (PWD) has unveiled a plan that may put a slightly larger dent in your wallet over the next couple of years. The proposed rate increase is expected to impact all residents, and there’s a chance for you to weigh in on these changes before they are finalized. Yes, your voice matters!

What’s on the Table?

The PWD is looking to raise rates for water, sewer, and stormwater services. Starting on September 1, 2025, the monthly bill for the average residential customer could climb by 11.7 percent. Just when you think you’re adjusting to that increase, another bump of 5.9 percent is anticipated on September 1, 2026. After these adjustments, the average monthly bill would jump to approximately $91.31 after the first increase and around $96.68 after the second.

Why the Increase?

So, what’s driving this proposed rate hike? The short answer is rising costs. The PWD needs to account for increased expenses related to labor, materials, equipment, laboratory services, and meeting regulatory obligations. In simple terms, running a water department is getting pricier, and they need your help to keep things flowing smoothly.

Public Hearings: Your Chance to Speak Up!

Residents of Philadelphia have the opportunity to share their thoughts and ask questions about the proposed changes during a series of public hearings scheduled this month. The Philadelphia Water, Sewer, and Storm Water Rate Board will host four sessions where your feedback can make a difference. Remember, your input can influence the final decision!

The public hearings are set for:

April 22: 1 to 3 p.m. (in-person at Philadelphia Gas Commission) and 6 to 8 p.m. (virtual).
April 23: 1 to 3 p.m. (virtual) and 6 to 8 p.m. (in-person at Zion Baptist Church).

To participate, you will need to register if you wish to testify, but don’t worry—you can also submit written testimony via email if that’s more your style. Details and links for the virtual meetings are available at phila.gov/water/rateboard. So, mark your calendars!

Assistance Programs Expanded

In a bid to support residents, the PWD is also expanding assistance programs like the Tiered Assistance Program (TAP) and the Senior Citizen Discount. This is a helpful step for those who might find the proposed hikes more challenging.

History of Rate Adjustments

It’s worth noting that there haven’t been any rate increases since 2021, and in the past, the community managed to reduce a proposed rate hike by half through public testimony. The last three water rate increase proposals hinted at a potential total increase of 20% by 2024. This is why it’s crucial for residents to continue voicing their opinions during these hearings.

What’s Next?

Once the public voice is heard, the Rate Board will review the requests made by the PWD. They will hold technical hearings to ensure that any increases proposed are fair and justified. A final decision is expected by July, so stay tuned!

In closing, Philadelphia residents are encouraged to engage in this process. Water is a basic necessity, and we all want to ensure it’s managed effectively. Mark those dates and make your voice heard in the city’s initiative to maintain clean water supplies and improve infrastructure!