City of Pasco Requesting Feedback on Updates to Irrigation Utility Rates and Fees

​The City of Pasco is considering adjustments to its irrigation utility rates and introducing a new connection fee to maintain reliable service and support system upgrades. The irrigation system, serving over 9,000 residents, operates separately from the City's drinking water system and sources water from the Columbia River and 11 wells. Since 2017, the customer base has grown by 25%, necessitating system expansion to meet increasing demand.
 
The City is seeking feedback on the options to:

• Ensure Reliable Service: Address aging infrastructure and ensure consistent water pressure for all customers.
• Accommodate Growth: Expand capacity to serve the city's growing population and future developments.
• Fund Improvements: Generate necessary revenue for ongoing maintenance and capital projects.

 
Potential adjustments include:
 

• Monthly Rate Increases: Incremental fee increases to support operations, repairs, and enhancements.
• New Connection Fee: A one-time charge for new customers to fund system expansion and capacity improvements.

 
In conjunction with FCS Group, the City studied the irrigation system's financial needs. Preliminary recommendations suggest a connection fee of up to $1,468 per new customer. Implementing this fee would ensure that new users share the costs associated with growth rather than solely existing customers.
 
Community input is vital to this process. Residents can share their feedback through the City's online comment form on the Irrigation Rate Update page. An online stakeholder meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, December 11, at 3 p.m., and a community listening session will be scheduled soon.
 
The timeline for the proposed changes is as follows:
 

• Current: Collection of feedback through meetings and online comments.
• January 2025: Compilation and presentation of feedback to the City Council.
• February 2025: City Council review and decision-making.
• March 2025: Implementation of new rates and fees, if approved.

 
Please visit the City's Irrigation Utility Rate Updates page for more information, including FAQs, a detailed cost breakdown, meeting schedules, and the online feedback form.
 
The City of Pasco remains committed to providing affordable and reliable irrigation services, ensuring the system is well-prepared for future growth and community needs.