2026 Utility Rates Adopted

Updated rates will appear on the March bill mailed in April 2026.

Following a detailed review of utility costs, engineering analysis of infrastructure needs, and community input gathered, Council approved updates to water, sewer, trash, recycling, and compost rates. Water rates reflect the largest utility changes, driven by rising wholesale costs from Denver Water and the need to invest in aging pipes and infrastructure - many installed in the 1950s through 1980s - before they fail. For several years, the water utility relied on transfers from the City's General Fund to stay balanced. The updated rates are designed to make the utility self-sustaining and eliminate that reliance going forward.

Sewer rates reflect higher treatment charges from Metro Water Recovery. Trash, recycling, and compost rates reflect cost increases from a new contracted service provider following a 2025 rebid.

For a typical residential customer using around 7,000 gallons per month, the combined water and sewer portion of the bill is expected to increase by approximately $10.55 per month. Individual bills vary based on actual usage and meter size.

How much work needs to be done?

Engineering analysis estimates that replacing aging water and stormwater infrastructure will require more than $30 million in reinvestment over the next 20 years. The water system alone has an estimated $13.8 million in pipe replacement needs through 2045. These are planning-level estimates based on pipe age, material, and condition - replacement of existing infrastructure, not system expansion. Proactive investment reduces the risk of emergency repairs, service disruptions, and unplanned costs for residents.

What about stormwater and sidewalks?

It helps to know that stormwater and sanitary sewer are two separate systems. Sanitary sewer carries wastewater from sinks, toilets, and drains to Metro Water Recovery for treatment. Stormwater infrastructure - separate pipes and drains - carries rain and snowmelt away from streets, homes, and businesses. Unlike water and sewer, stormwater does not currently have a dedicated funding source.

Council also considered adding a dedicated stormwater fee in 2026. After discussion, Council decided to prioritize stabilizing the water utility first and defer the stormwater fee to a future phase. Stormwater funding remains an open topic and residents should expect it to come up again as the City evaluates long-term options. The same is true for community sidewalk improvements, which also require a dedicated funding strategy and will be part of future discussions.

2026 Residential Rate Summary

Water usage rates (per 1,000 gallons):

Monthly service charge - typical residential (3/4" meter):

Sewer usage rate (per 1,000 gallons, based on winter water usage):

Full rate tables including all meter sizes are available in the documents section.

Questions about your bill?

Contact Penny Mays in Utility Billing at 720-763-3060. The two letters mailed to all utility customers in March 2026 are available below as reference documents.