Water rate increase approved for Marshfield Utilities
New rates take effect Jan. 1
For Hub City Times
MARSHFIELD — The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW) has approved a requested increase in water rates for Marshfield Utilities. The decision followed a rate case hearing on Dec. 9 where three residents spoke out against the increase. Seven other Marshfield Utilities customers submitted online comments to the PSCW.
The 15 percent increase approved by PSCW means the average residential bill for water consumption will increase less than $3 per month to about $22, and the public fire protection charge will increase less than $1 on a property valued at $100,000.
“The rate case hearing was a good opportunity for Marshfield Utilities customers to let us know what’s on their minds and what they think about our upcoming projects and system investments,” said Marshfield Utilities General Manager Bob Trussoni. “The input from customers is valuable, including concerns about the impact of the water rate increase on low-income residents.”
Marshfield Utilities requested the rate increase to cover the costs of several projects to ensure a safe and reliable supply of drinking water for its customers. Recent and upcoming investments for Marshfield Utilities include:
—Purchase of new water meters.
—A new water tower.
—Replacement of a forced draft aerator at the water treatment facility.
—A new well.
—Testing pipes for lead and copper.
—Replacement and lining of water mains.
The projects that have been completed have increased the utility’s investment in the water system infrastructure by more than 20 percent since 2011.
“These are all significant long-range investments to help us maintain a water system that will be safe and dependable for many years to come,” Trussoni added.
The new water rates will be effective on Jan. 1, 2016, with the new rates reflected on February bills.
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