Pasco County Announces Increase In Utility Rates

PASCO COUNTY, FL — Pasco County Utilities customers should anticipate rate changes on their monthly water, wastewater and reclaimed water bills effective Oct. 1. The average residential customer using 6,000 gallons of water will see an increase from $79 to $81.30, a difference of $2.30.

Residential reclaimed water customers will also see small increases in the reclaimed water base charge and the back-flow prevention device fee, along with a new tiered rate for reclaimed water use in excess of 10,000 gallons:

The base charge of $11 includes the first 10,000 gallons of reclaimed water with a $1.10 charge for every additional 1,000 gallons.

The flow prevention device fee is $5.99.

Despite the increase, Pasco continues to offer one of the lowest rates in the area. Revenue is used to maintain, repair and replace water, wastewater and reclaimed water systems.

“The revenue helps ensure that all customers have reliable access to safe, clean drinking water every day,” said utilities customer service director Sandra Anderson.“With these changes, we also strongly encourage all customers, regardless of water source, to ensure that irrigation systems are working correctly and efficiently to avoid higher bills.”

The new four-year rate schedule takes effect Oct. 1. The Cost of Service Rate Study, which determined the changes, is available online and includes projected annual adjustments to service rates, fees and charges through 2025.

A full list of new rates and fees is available online.