BUFFALO, NY — The Erie County Water Authority’s (ECWA) Board of Commissioners has approved a slight rate increase for customers which will go into effect on Jan. 1, 2018.
According to the Water Authority, the increase of 5 cents (per 1,000 gallons) will effect 97% of its customers, raising the average water user’s bill by $3.40 annually.
The rate hike is being implemented as the Water Authority plans to spend an additional $4 million on its capital budget, which is used for infrastructure repairs to its system.
The Authority's capital budget was at $32 million in 2017 and will increase to $36 million in 2018.
However, the Quarterly Infrastructure Investment Charge on customer bills will remain static for the second consecutive year.
ECWA says that it will continue to commit significant funds to upgrade its distribution system, pipelines, tanks, plants and pump stations.