Gwinnett Commissioners adopted a new water and sewer rate resolution on Tuesday that eliminates an increase in rates previously scheduled to take effect Jan. 1. Without this action, rates would have increased by approximately 3.5 percent for water and about 10 percent for sewer. Modest rate changes of approximately 1.5 percent for water and about 2 percent for sewer are part of the new plan for 2017, 2019 and 2021.
Water Resources Director Ron Seibenhener noted process changes at water treatment and water reclamation facilities have reduced the use of both chemicals and power. The department has also reduced water loss throughout the system with an advanced leak detection program and lowered the number of costly equipment failures with a focus on preventive maintenance. “Most importantly, we have optimized our capital program to ensure the right projects are happening at the right time in the right way,” added Seibenhener.
Gwinnett has also taken advantage of favorable credit ratings and low interest rates to refinance water and sewer bonds resulting in nearly $30 million in interest savings. Information: www.gwinnettcounty.com.
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