38% rate hike sought to cover $65 million in water, sewer upgrades for Wheeling, W. Va.

The city of Wheeling, West Virginia has proposed a 38% rate increase to cover more than $65 million in prioritized water and sewer system improvements, The Intelligencer reported. 

Wheeling city officials and members of the Public Utilities Committee gathered last week to discuss the most crucial wastewater and sanitary sewer system projects needed for the community.

According to The Intelligencer, while city leaders plan to issue 30-year bonds to finance the projects, customers will see their monthly bills rise as part of the city’s strategy to cover the costs.

Overall, the list of water system improvements is estimated to cost around $21.5 million, while sewer system improvement costs could reach up to $43.85 million, for an estimated total of $65.35 million.

Wheeling City Manager Robert Herron estimated that the work could be completed in as little as three years, and noted that the project debt is expected to be paid over a duration of 30 years. 

Herron confirmed the city typically increases rates every five-to-six years. 

Before a rate hike can be approved, a rate ordinance will be presented to city council, followed by a bond ordinance. A required public hearing will also be held.

City leaders broke down the impacts the rate increase will have on customers and presented a perspective by way of the list of rates at all other municipal service providers across the state.

Currently, Wheeling’s water rate for 4,000 gallons is $30.63 per month. It would go to $42.26 if a 38% rate increase were to be implemented. On the sewer side, the current rate for 4,000 gallons is $42.76 per month. It would go to $57.62 if the proposed increase goes through, The Intelligencer reported. 

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