MACON, Ga. — Starting next year, Macon Water Authority customers will likely have higher bills as the authority increases rates, the authority announced in a press release on Thursday.
The Macon Water Authority's Board of Directors approved a hike in water and sewage rates following what they say is "a thorough rate analysis identifying additional funding needed to support critical infrastructure projects and meet increasing service demands."
Here's what you need to know about the new rate increase.
How much is the MWA rate increase?
For an average household using 5,000 gallons of water each month, they can expect to see their water and sewage costs increase by $12.46 a month, the Macon Water Authority says.
Both the water and sewage rates are each increasing by $6.23 per month for customers using 5,000 gallons of water each month.
Why is the Water Authority increasing rates?
The costs come as the authority looks at necessary infrastructural improvements and "essential upgrades" to help keep their services reliable, maintain regulatory compliance and "enhance service delivery," the Macon Water Authority said in a press release.
In addition to a rate increase, the Macon Water Authority issued $102.7 million in bonds in October 2024, and the authority has approved a second $300 million bond scheduled for 2026.
They say it's all part of the water authority's Capital Improvement Plan for 2025-2029. The plan includes meter upgrades, a $3 million gallon above-ground water storage tank and a new booster pump station, according to the authority's website.
They also note improvements at the Lower Poplar and Rocky Creek Reclamation Facilities as part of their infrastructure upgrades.
Ron Shipman, executive director at the Macon Water Authority, painted the increase as an investment in safety and the future.
“To maintain the highest level of water safety, which remains our top priority, infrastructure maintenance and replacements are vital. This includes replacing and maintaining pipes, drainage systems, pumps, and electrical components,” Shipman said. “These improvements are necessary and will benefit our customers and the broader community for years to come.”
They also expect the bonds and rate increase will allow the authorities to stay out of financial trouble and be able to pay off their bond obligations.
While the Macon Water Authority recognized that many people are feeling the pinch of rising prices, they say that the water authority has "maintained some of the lowest rates in the state while delivering safe, high-quality water and storm-water services to the community."
“We recognize that our customers, like us, are facing rising costs in today’s economic climate,” Shipman said in the press release. “There is never a convenient time to adjust rates, but we appreciate the cooperation and support of our valued customers."
When will the Macon Water Authority rate increase hit your bill?
Ratepayers, however, have some time to prepare ahead of the rate increase going into effect. The rates will not go into effect until Jan. 1, 2025, the Water Authority said.
But that is only the case for people in Macon-Bibb County.
Macon Water Authority customers in Jones County, Monroe County and Byron will experience the rate change a few months later, starting in February 2025. That's due to contractional requirements.
Who makes the decision to boost rates?
The Macon Water Authority is a government corporation created by the Georgia General Assembly to oversee water services in Macon-Bibb County.
The Macon Water Authority's board of directors, who ultimately voted on the upcoming rate increase, are elected by the people of Macon. They serve geographical districts in Macon-Bibb County.
The authority, however, is run by a professional executive director, Mr. Shipman, who oversees day-to-day operations.
