Customers are responding to Birmingham Water Works’ proposed water rate increase

On November 15, 2024By Pranco

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC) – No shortage of complaints during a meeting Wednesday discussing a possible rate increase for Birmingham Water Works customers.

Dozens showed up for a rally at the Birmingham Crossplex hosted by Jefferson County Commissioner Sheila Tyson. It comes as it is useful proposing a 4.9% rate increase on bills. The budget plan also includes a new way to structure costs.

BWWB said the cost of doing business is rising and this is one of the reasons for the potential rate increase.

“There are costs that we just can’t solve, and the cost of water is not cheap. And we don’t want to put ourselves in a situation like Flint, Michigan or Jackson, Mississippi. While we are affected by inflation, the utility is also affected by inflation. But we do what we can when it comes to having these discussions to ensure we get the lowest, affordable price for our customers,” said Tereshia Huffman, president of BWWB.

Under the proposed 2025 budget, what the Water Works considers the “average” customer who is on a residential bill and uses 6 CCF of water each month will pay approximately $2.14 more per month. The utility is also lowering the threshold for the highest rate level from 16 CCF to 13 CCF, but says steps have been taken to distribute the increase more evenly.

Customers at the meeting were not happy with the possible increase and want BWWB not to place the increase on their shoulders.

“We are the ones who have to pay the bills. We’re the ones who have to get to work and figure out how we’re going to pay Peter while we rob Paul. When will this end? Because it just keeps happening and it seems to us like someone has figured out a way to put this burden on people,” said one customer.

“I used to brag that the waterworks was the best utility we had. I can’t say that anymore, because people have lost confidence. If you can be transparent about the money, show us where the money is going,” said another customer.

We’re told the vote on the increase could take place at the board’s next scheduled meeting on Nov. 20.

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