Friday, December 5, 2003

Rates are on the rise

The Fulton County Board of Commissioners voted at its December 3 meeting to raise rates for Fultonwater and sewer customers by 5 percent effectiveJanuary 1, 2004.

This is the first rate hike for Fulton County water and sewer customers since January 1, 1997.  Three public hearings were held in November to present the need for the improvements and to notify residents of the rate change.

Sewer system tap fees in the Johns Creek and Big Creek service areas and water system connection fees for Fulton County customers will increase by 100 percent, also effective January 1.

The increases are part of the financing strategy for a $258 million, 2004 through 2006 water and wastewater capital improvement program (CIP).  A $287 million, 30 year revenue bond is expected to be issued in the first quarter of 2004.  Ten percent of the bond amount will be used for debt service reserve and other associated costs.

In addition to the rate and fee increases, the program will also be funded through available retained earnings in the Fulton County Water and Sewer Utility Fund.

Work for the 2004 CIP is expected to begin in the first quarter of next year, and to be completed by the end of 2008.  Projects in the CIP are based on a detailed analysis of the FultonCounty water and sewer infrastructure system in conjunction with the development of a long-term Strategic Business Plan.