Pennsylvania American Water has announced that new rates for sewer customers in the City of York will go into effect on May 27. The average increase of $36 monthly was approved by the Pennsylvania Utility Commission.
The City of York has been encouraging residents to look into help with their sewer bills through discounts provided by Pennsylvania American Water. More than 5,000 customers in the City are eligible for the H2O Help to Others program, but less than 450 City residents have enrolled. “Ensuring our residents get the discounts designed for them is even more important than ever,” said Mayor Michael Helfrich.
To Sign Up, Please Call 1-888-282-6816 or Visit:
The rate increase is the first for York residents in 8 years. Rates were frozen for the past 3 years as part of a 2022 agreement when the City of York sold its wastewater plant to PA American Water.
Mayor Helfrich said, “While no one likes to see their bills increase, this sewer fee adjustment is much less than the tax and sewer fee increases we would be seeing if we had not sold the system. Also, sewer fees are a more equitable cost to residents because they are based on everyone paying for the water they use and are paid by everyone, including our nonprofits that are not required to pay property taxes.”
In 2020, York City residents were facing a potential 48% tax increase and 42% sewer fee increase. Knowing that the ever-growing cost of maintaining a city would continue in future years, Mayor Helfrich and City Council approved the sale of the wastewater treatment plant and collection system.
The $235 million in revenue from the sale of the wastewater treatment system was used to pay down the debts of the city and the remaining funds were invested. Revenue generated from this investment along with some of the principal has allowed City residents to go without tax increases for the last 5 years.
Mayor Helfrich encouraged future officials, “If future mayors and City Council members are fiscally responsible, city property owners should see no tax increase for at least the next 10 years.”
