Utility Rates and Fees

Base charges, use charges, connection charges, installation charges, and inspection charges shall be adjusted by either of the following conditions:

  1. Each January 1st by the percentage increase of the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue Consumer Price Index (CPI-U) as reported for the previous June to June period.
  2. Town Council action taken after review of the current adopted rate study.

Prior to increasing charges, all proposed increases are discussed with the council, typically during the budget season or upon adoption of a new rate study. Rate increases do not require notice pursuant to RCW regulations for water, sewer, and stormwater charges and at least 45 days' notice for refuse charges. 

Pursuant to RCW 35.67.020, cities and towns have the authority to construct, operate, and maintain systems with provisions for rate setting. Rates must be uniform for the same class of customers and consider factors such as location, cost of service, and conservation goals.

On December 18, 2025, the Town adopted Ordinance Nos. 1830-1836, increasing the monthly base, service fees, and connection fees to customers for water, sewer, stormwater, and refuse services.  Refuse increases will take effect February 1, 2026.

Rate Increases

  • Water: 13%.  Consumption fees are now the same for in- and out-of-town customers.
  • Sewer: 3%
  • Stormwater: 25%
  • Refuse: 2.7%

Why the Increase

This fee change was needed to cover inflation and anticipated increases in expenses for emergency repairs and planned improvements to water, sewer, stormwater, and refuse services. These include, but are not limited to, two critical projects underway at the water and wastewater treatment plants required by law to sustain consumption and treatment needs.  Stormwater rates have not kept pace with rate study recommendations, resulting in under funding of a storm drainage system with areas of inadequate drainage. 

What This Means

Single Family Residences with a 5/8" water meter saw an increase of $8.95 to base fees and $1.55 for the first 3,500 gallons of water usage. The base rates for sewer increased $4.20, stormwater increased $4.50, and refuse increased $.10.

Public Notice

The public was notified in the December 24, 2025, Journal of the San Juan Islands that the increased rates are effective effect January 1, 2026, for water, sewer, and stormwater and February 1, 2026, for refuse.

Future increases will be assessed annually based on CPI-U or the adopted rate studies as follows:

  • Water and Sewer: Rate study adopted June 6, 2024, Resolution No. 2855, for 2021 through 2030.
  • Stormwater: No current rate study adopted. Previous rate study adopted August 21, 2008, Resolution 1667, for 2008 through 2015.
  • Refuse: No current rate study adopted.