Richmond utility bills could rise by $13 a month under proposed budget
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There's a chance your Richmond utility bills might go up nearly $13 a month starting this summer.
The big picture: Mayor Danny Avula's proposed budget, which he presented Thursday afternoon, would increase rates to support major utility projects over the next five years. They include:
- $340 million to replace aging sewer pipes.
- $200 million to replace leak-prone gas pipes.
- Over $205 million to address chronic flooding.
- $100 million towards water plant upgrades.
By the numbers: The proposed monthly average hikes — which Avula said were planned before January's water crisis — would go into effect in July, if City Council approves it. Here's how they could break down:
- Gas: + $4.88
- Stormwater: + $1.04
- Water: + $2.36
- Wastewater: + $4.55
What they're saying: "I understand that any increase affects household budgets, but these adjustments will help ensure that when you turn on your tap, or you cut on your heat, the service is there and working properly," Avula said Thursday.
Zoom in: Chesterfield, Henrico and Hanover are proposing several increased utility rates, too.
- Chesterfield residents could see their utility bills increase by a little under $3 per month.
- Henrico residents could see their bimonthly water bills increase by about $7.35, based on average household use.
- In Hanover, water and sewer bills could increase by $7.84 bimonthly.
Between the lines: For renters, landlords who cover utilities like wastewater, water and stormwater are the ones who would absorb these higher costs.
- But they could pass them on to tenants via raised rents.
What's next: We'll have a more in-depth proposed budget breakdown next week.