quote:

Originally posted by tammylynwilson:
Here's an explanation of how the water rates work and how the new system came to be.

Two years ago the Commission passed an ordinance that would essentially raise water rates approximately 30 cents every year as of January 1st. This measure was taken because water consumption rates had not be risen since Jan. 1 1990. After a water study was conducted, a rate was proposed where water rates should be. In order to not hike rates up all at once, the gradual increase was put in place. Rates will continue to increase approximately 30 cents every year until 2016. By 2016, these rates will increase annually as of Jan. 1 of each year by the annual Social Security Adjustment which is based upon the Consumer Price Index. Now as it stands before you use any water, your bill would read $8.90 for water consumption, $8.90 for sewer and $1.67 for sewer improvement, a tax that was added many years ago in preparation for projects such as the water reclamation plant which is a must because of the size of Enid. Also included in that is 1000 gallons of water. After that first 1000 gallons of water, the rates read as follows: $2.08 for every 1000 gallons, $1.19 for sewer and $1.96 for sewer improvements. Also in an effort to encourage conservation for times such as this dry summer, after 7000 gallons of use, the water rate increases to almost $4 per 1000 gallons. To put in this new automatic meter system, the City took out a loan and a stimulus allowed up to $2 million which was awarded to the City, meaning that $2 million will be forgiven on the loan. Money made from utilities will pay of the loan but with just the new accuracy of the system, the system will pay for itself. It should also be noted that before installing this new Automatic Meter reading system, nearly 21% of water went unaccounted for.

Now through this new system, we can tell you exactly where your leak is and how much it is leaking WITHOUT you having to pay a plumber. It should also be noted that the City of Enid just received an accolade from the Oklahoma Department of Health for the healthy quality of our water. An accolade that the City has received in the past as well. All these water improvements are to help provide for a long term water supply and a better quality of life for citizens.

AND - apparently in the summer months you get a 20% discount in your sewer and sewer improvements because of extra watering that happens then.

quote:

Originally posted by tammylynwilson:
How many gallons does it show you use per month? Have you looked at the usage at the City where they can show you on the screen?

quote:

Originally posted by oldrock:

quote:

Originally posted by tammylynwilson:
How many gallons does it show you use per month? Have you looked at the usage at the City where they can show you on the screen?

It would be assumed that the reading on the screen was probably used to determine the amount on the bill. The problem is more likely to be a defective metering system. It is difficult to implement an electrical metering of a mechanical system. If Mr. Galt's figures are used it would appear that around 50,000 gallons would have to be used to warrant a bill of $527 for two months. That is an inordinate amount of water for two people unless, of course, Sooner1 lives next door.