A message from the King County Executive... Dear community member: Thank you for taking the time to read the Wastewater Treatment Division's Ratepayer Report. Communicating with ratepayers has long been an integral part of our business, whether it's hosting treatment plant tours, holding public meetings or workshops, attending community events, conducting surveys, soliciting community input on project plans, or keeping people informed about wastewater construction projects under way in their neighborhood.
July 2008 Update - Effective Jan. 1, 2009, the county's wholesale monthly sewer rate will increase from $27.95 to $31.90. (This new two-year rate will be for 2009-2010.) The monthly capacity charge for new connections will increase from $46.25 to $47.64. View news release. | In keeping with this practice, we've developed this newsletter to share information about a proposed $2.25 increase in the monthly sewer rate, bringing it to $30.20 per month (for 2009). I am also proposing a $1.39 per month increase in the capacity charge levied to newly connecting customers that they pay in addition to their monthly sewer bill, bringing the amount to $47.64. If adopted by the King County Council, these new rates will take effect on Jan. 1, 2009. The revenue from the rate and capacity charge will cover the cost of carrying out crucial infrastructure projects outlined in the King County Council-approved Regional Wastewater Services Plan, a 30-year comprehensive plan to ensure we have enough wastewater treatment capacity to protect public health and the environment for our growing population. In addition to population growth, many of our facilities will reach the end of their useful lifespan, and we need to continue investing in maintaining and upgrading our system to ensure the next generation enjoys a quality of life that makes this region a great place to live, work and play. The King County Council will begin review and discussion of our 2009 rate proposal this spring. As this process gets under way, we want you to understand not just how these rate increases could impact sewer bills, but how your sewer bill is an investment in clean water with tangible returns. It's all too easy to take clean water for granted. But clean water isn't cheap, and we don't attain it by inaction. It takes a combination of planning, investment and the support of elected representatives, business leaders and community members like you. We hope this newsletter increases your understanding of the business we do and the service we provide, and the important role wastewater treatment plays in preserving our natural resources and quality of life. Sincerely,
Ron Sims
King County Executive | 
