Honolulu proposes first sewer fee increases since 2016 to improve wastewater infrastructure

(UI) — The City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Environmental Services (ENV) has announced plans to increase sewer fees over the next 10 years, starting July 1, 2025.

This marks the first proposed rate increases since 2016 and aims to fund critical improvements to the city’s wastewater infrastructure, ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, and protect public health and the environment.

The proposed rate adjustments begin with a 9% increase annually for the first six years, followed by smaller increases of 8%, 7%, 6%, and 5% in the final four years. This results in a total fee increase of 115% over the decade.

The additional revenue will help cover rising operation and maintenance costs and support essential construction projects, including the completion of the $2.5 billion upgrade of the Sand Island Wastewater Treatment Plant to full secondary treatment—an obligation under the city’s 2010 federal consent decree. The funds will also address necessary repairs and upgrades to modernize O‘ahu’s aging wastewater collection and treatment systems, preparing them for climate change and sea-level rise.

“We understand the financial strain that these rate increases may cause for our residents, but these adjustments are critical for the long-term sustainability of our island’s wastewater system,” said Mayor Rick Blangiardi. “By investing in these infrastructure upgrades today, we are safeguarding public health, protecting our environment, and ensuring that O‘ahu is prepared for the future challenges of climate change. These improvements are essential for our community’s well-being.”

To mitigate the impact on low-income households, ENV will introduce the Customer Assistance for Residential Environmental Services (CARES) program. Households earning less than 80% of the area median income (AMI) may qualify for a monthly credit of $20 to $25 on their fixed sewer charge.

Additionally, the sewer fee structure will be adjusted to give customers more control over their bills. Over the next four years, the current 70/30 fixed-to-volumetric fee ratio will gradually shift to a 50/50 ratio. This change will allow customers to pay lower fees if they reduce their water usage.

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