PENDLETON, Ore.-The City of Pendleton will adjust water and sewer rates effective April 1.
Water and sewer rates are increased 2.5 percent annually based on inflation, however, this year the proposed adjustment includes an additional 2.75 percent in water rates and 1.25 percent in sewer rates.
“While we recognize that any increase can be difficult, these adjustments are essential to ensure the continued delivery of safe and reliable services to our community,” said Jeff Brown, Pendleton Public Works Director.
According to the City of Pendleton, the proposed rate increases are necessary due to increased operational costs, the need to maintain or improve aging infrastructure, and regulatory compliance requirements.
Residents currently pay an average of $53.05 a month for water and $54.40 for sewer based on 5,000 gallons of water and 6.7 units of sewer being used by the average household monthly.
The proposed increases would add $2.62 to water and $2.08 to sewer, bringing the monthly total for water and sewer service to $112.14, an increase of $4.70.
Pendleton is looking for funding opportunities and grants to help offset future rate increases. Utility assistance is also available for qualifying households.
“We understand that rate adjustments can raise concerns, and we are committed to keeping the public informed,” said Brown.
Pendleton residents are invited to provide feedback regarding the proposed water and sewer rates during an open public hearing at the City Council meeting scheduled for 7 p.m. on April 1 at Pendleton City Hall.
“Pendleton is looking for funding opportunities and grants to help offset future rate increases.” If these people would pay a little attention to what’s happening in Washington DC, they should have realized by now that those ‘funding opportunities’ are a thing of the past. Our Mayor found that out first hand on her recent trip to the capital seeking grants.