Rates are being adjusted to fund improvements and operations. Improvements include but are not limited to: $42 million in water system improvements, including the water well field capacity improvements and waterline replacements, as well as $8.9 million in sewer line improvements and future needed improvements to the wastewater plant.
A study conducted in 2020 identified the need for a readjustment of water rates which was never fully implemented. In September 2023 a consultant reviewed our costs, services, projects and revenues and provide City Council with a rate model which was given to the City Council. The City council made slight modifications and passed the utility rate increase. As all city costs have increased, such as electricity, gas, supplies, employee costs and contract labor, the City has found it necessary to pass those costs on to those who utilize the services.
Under the plan approved by Council, the water rate plan for residential customers establishes a base charge of $20.80 effective November 1, 2025. The base charge includes 2,000 gallons of water usage. You can view the new rates here.
Our long-term goal is to safeguard our long-term water supply while ensuring our water remains affordable for customers who use water for basic life needs. We do this by minimizing rate adjustments for customers' indoor water use (laundry, dishes, personal hygiene) while implementing rates to encourage conservation among customers who use excess water for outdoor landscaping, garden ponds, swimming pools, and recreation. Outdoor water use places more demand on our system and our water supply. These customers pay more since they use more.
Sanitation rates increased on November 1, 2025. The new rates can be found here.
You can visit the City of Bethany Customer Service page here for a list of conservation tips.