Hamilton, Ohio -
The first phase of a multiyear wastewater rate plan designed to improve the City sanitary sewer system will be implemented with customer bills beginning August 1.
"The five-year rate plan is designed primarily to fund sanitary sewer collection system improvements," said Director of Public Utilities Kevin Maynard. "These improvements include sanitary sewer replacement and lining projects, rebuilding/replacing manholes, special projects such as South Hamilton Crossing, and repair or replacement of residential customer sewer laterals in public rights-of-way."
In 2016, approximately $2.6 million is being spent to line 10.5 miles of sanitary sewers in multiple locations, to replace 800 feet of sanitary sewer on South Second Street and other locations, and to repair/replace sewer laterals within the public right-of-way.
On June 22, City Council also directed staff to develop and implement a plan to address improper customer sump pump, downspout and drain connections to the sanitary sewer system, allocating $250,000 to initiate such a program. This program is expected to reduce the likelihood of wet basement issues during heavy rainfall events.
Under the rates effective August 1, a typical residential wastewater customer bill will increase $1 per month. Customers using less than 200 cubic feet per month will see a decrease in their monthly wastewater charges.
"The City is focused on improving its sanitary sewer collection system in an effort to provide reliable, trouble-free customer service. Although wastewater rates will increase $1 per month, a typical Hamilton resident will still pay an estimated $271.08 less per year than those served by other regional utility providers," Maynard added.
The City of Hamilton owns and operates all four primary utilities, including electric, natural gas, water and wastewater systems. The City is one of the lowest cost utility service providers in the region and state. For further information, contact Utility Business Manager Nathan Perry at (513) 785-7217.