Pender County, NC—The Pender County Board of Commissioners has approved a new water rate and fee schedule proposed by Pender County Utilities, effective July 1, 2024. This decision marks a shift in how water consumption charges will be structured. The shift from district-based rates to a system based on meter sizes is aimed at ensuring a more equitable distribution of costs among residents based on their actual water usage.
Under the new schedule, all residents of Pender County will pay uniform rates determined by their meter size, ensuring fairness and consistency in billing practices. This adjustment follows a comprehensive review by Pender County Utilities, which noted that neighboring utilities predominantly use meter size as a basis for their rate structures.
Key changes include an average water rate increase of 16.6%, equating to a monthly increase of $10.34 for the average water user. Additionally, serviceability fees for the standard ¾ inch residential meter will rise from $27.50 to $32.50 per month. The water rate per 1000 gallons will increase from $6.50 to $7.50 across various meter sizes, from one-inch to eight-inch meters.
Anthony Colon, Executive Director of Pender County Utilities, emphasized the necessity of these adjustments, citing rising operational costs since the last rate adjustment in 2015. Factors contributing to the increase include the growth of the customer base by eleven percent and significant expansions in personnel and equipment aimed at enhancing service reliability and emergency response capabilities.
"It is our commitment to ensure equitable and sustainable water services for all residents of Pender County," stated Mr. Colon. "These adjustments are essential to meet the growing demands of our community and to maintain the high standards of service expected by our customers."
Pender County Utilities urges residents to familiarize themselves with the new rate structure. Detailed information regarding the updated rates and fee schedules can be found on the Pender County Utilities website FY2025 Fee Schedule or by contacting customer service at 910-259-1570.