A utility rate study examines the total cost of upcoming infrastructure and maintenance needs for the foreseeable future and then analyzes utility usage (how much water is used each day), consumer groups (residential, multi-family, commercial) and fees (flat fee, usage fee, connection fees, impact fees) to find the most equitable way to fund the city’s utility system.

The City has employed FCS Group to conduct the rate study. FCS GROUP, established in 1988, provides utility rate and fee consulting, utility management consulting, financial planning and analysis, and economic services to public sector clients inclusive of city and county governments, municipal corporations, ports, special purpose districts, and state agencies. They have performed more than 2,000 utility finance and rate development projects.

This study is being completed with support fromCity staff, with Finance Director Sirke Salminen being the lead contact for this project. You can reach her by phone at (360) 685-2352 or email by clicking here.

The City has not conducted a rate study in over two decade, and during that time the city’s needs and population have changed. With rising temperatures reducing well input, the City has drilled a new well to increase capacity. The city’s wastewater treatment plant is due for updating and expansion.

With the city making these investments, it was time for a fresh look at how these costs are shared by the public. This rate study is intended to provide a fair, stable, and accurate rate structure for the foreseeable future.

No rate study would be truly accurate without a robust public process so that the community can weigh in on potential rate structures and share how they would be impacted by the changes.

Review the timeline under the “WHEN” tab and check this space for public meetings and opportunities to be involved. Residents may also email their feedback directly to City by clicking here.