The following letter was sent out to Lower Saucon Authority water customers this week:
Dear Customer:
After a review of costs, we have found it necessary to put an increase into effect for water service beginning April 1, 2022. Effective that date, water rates per thousand gallons will increase a uniform 10.0%. Water rates will be increased 68 cents per 1000 gallons, to $7.49/1000 gallons. The Base (Meter) Charge is unaffected. A typical residential customer with a 5/8-inch meter, who uses 15,000 gallons of water over three months, will see an increase in their quarterly bill of $10.20, or approximately $0.1133 a day. The first billing reflecting the new rate structure will occur in the bills received in the first week in August, for the usage period from April – June.
This increase is made necessary by a significant increase in the raw cost of water, which we purchase directly from the City of Bethlehem. Specifically, Bethlehem increased our cost to purchase water from them by 13%. Quite simply, our Authority cannot underwrite that increase without increasing our rates for our customers as set forth in this letter. We have held off on a price increase for as long as we could, but we must raise our rates to cover our costs, which cover water purchases as well as normal operations and maintenance. Although we have been able to maintain our rates at a stable level for over four years (since January 1, 2018), a comprehensive review of current business and financial conditions makes it necessary to adjust this rate.
We appreciate this opportunity to explain the increase and to thank you for your understanding in this matter. If you desire more detailed information, please give us a call at 610-317-3212, or send us an e-mail at administrator@lowersauconauthority.org.
Thank you.