Why Macon water rates will increase soon. How will it impact residents’ monthly bills?

Middle Georgia counties can expect an increase in monthly water and sewer costs starting in 2025.

The Macon Water Authority’s Board of Directors approved a rate increase of about $6.23 per month for water services, and an additional $6.23 for wastewater services, the MWA announced Thursday. The new rates take effect in January in Macon, and February in Jones and Monroe counties, and the city of Byron.

The new costs will go toward improvements to regulatory water standards and “aging infrastructure” in the counties, according to a news release from MWA. They would also serve as a form of debt relief for the authority.

MWA plans to implement an advanced metering system, which measures the amount of water used by a residence or building. It would also improve the Lower Poplar and Rocky Creek Water Reclamation Facilities, as well as pipes, drainage systems, pumps and electrical components.

This decision was part of MWA’s 2025-2029 Capital Improvement Plan, which will be funded by a $102.7 million bond issued in October, and a potential bond of $300 million in 2026.

“The rate increase will allow MWA to maintain the financial stability necessary to meet its debt obligations, including bond debt service requirements and keep the Authority on a path toward long-term operational and financial health,” MWA said in a news release.

This story was originally published November 14, 2024 at 12:12 PM.