HomeMy WebLinkAboutRes2011-080 Sponsored by: Administration
CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
RESOLUTION 2011 -080
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
SEWARD, ALASKA, AMENDING THE WATER TARIFF AND
PROVIDING FOR A 4% INCREASE IN CALENDAR YEAR 2012
AND 6% INCREASE IN CALENDAR YEAR 2013 AND
PROVIDING FOR AN AUTOMATIC ANNUAL ADJUSTMENT
THEREAFTER TO ALL RATES AND FEES BY AN AMOUNT
EQUAL TO THE FIVE PREVIOUS FULL YEARS' AVERAGE
INCREASE IN THE ANCHORAGE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX
FOR ALL URBAN CONSUMERS
WHEREAS, the most recent external comprehensive study of the City of
Seward's utility rates was conducted sixteen years ago (in 1993) by R.W. Beck, resulting
in several amendments to the City's water tariff; and
WHEREAS, from 1993 through 2008 the consumer price index has risen
39.62 %, while rate increases associated with operating and maintenance costs have risen
only 14.9 %; and
WHEREAS, the City of Seward's enterprise funds are operated in a manner
similar to private business entities, in that they establish charges intended to cover the full
cost of providing services (including direct and indirect costs) including operations and
maintenance, overhead, system expansion and charges for the use of capital facilities; and
WHEREAS, in order to qualify for low - interest loans and bond financing for
capital infrastructure, the City must be able to demonstrate the adequacy of utility rates as
well as the financial capacity for debt repayment; and
WHEREAS, a decision to increase the water rates by 4.8% was the result of the
2010/2011 Budget process (equals five -year average CPI of 2.8% plus 2 %) effective
January 1, 2010 and 5.1% (equals five -year average CPI of 3.1% plus 2 %) effective
January 1, 2011, in addition to automatic rate increases annually thereafter, equal to the
five -year average CPI effective the first billing cycle of each year, in order to (at a
minimum) keep pace with increased cost increases; and
WHEREAS, the Seward City Council conducted a reassessment of enterprise
fund capital infrastructure and rate review in work sessions in preparation for the
2012/2013 Biennial Budget, the outcome of which identified the need to raise rates above
the CPI in order to cover the cost of capital infrastructure repairs and replacement, as well
as operational shortfalls; and
5
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CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
RESOLUTION 2011 -080
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WHEREAS, the proposed 2012/2013 budget increases water rates by 4%
effective January 1, 2012 and 6% effective January 1, 2013 in addition to automatic rate
increases annually thereafter, equal to the five -year average CPI each year effective the
first billing cycle of each year, in order to, at a minimum, keep pace with increased cost
increases; and
WHEREAS, a 4% rate increase in calendar year 2012 and a 6% increase in
calendar year 2013 will provide necessary critical relief from rising operation costs and
the cost of critical capital infrastructure repairs and replacement; and
WHEREAS, these rate increases still fall short of covering the cost of operations
plus, critical capital infrastructure repairs and replacement but assist with improving
enterprise fund financial health necessary to qualify for low interest loans; and
WHEREAS, the rate and fee schedule will resume the automatic annual
adjustment by the previous published five years' annual increases in the Consumer Price
Index beginning January 1, 2014; and
WHEREAS, annual rate adjustments will assist in demonstrating the City's
commitment to maintaining a financially sound utility and will serve to mitigate potential
'rate shock' associated with infrequent rate hikes.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA THAT:
Section 1. The Water Tariff is hereby amended to establish a new initial
paragraph prior to "Group A- Residential" on Page 3 -1, to read as follows:
ANNUAL RATE ADJUSTMENT: The rates and fees herein provided are adjusted
4% beginning the first billing cycle of calendar year 2012 and 6% beginning the first
billing cycle of calendar year 2013. The rates thereafter will be adjusted annually
beginning the first billing of each calendar year to reflect an average of the five previous
published years' annual increases in the Consumer Price Index, All Items, 1982 -84 =100
. for all Urban Consumers, Anchorage, Alaska Area ( "CPI') as published by the United
States Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics. (For example, 2011 rates
reflected an increase based on the average CPI for 2004- 2008.)
mai
CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
RESOLUTION 2011 -080
Section 2. All previous Resolutions in conflict herewith are hereby repealed
effective December 31, 2011.
Section 3. The rates, fees, and charges incorporated herein by reference and
attached hereto as "Water Rates and Charges — 2012" are effective January 1, 2012 and
as "Water Rates and Charges — 2013" are effective January 1, 2013, and are hereby
ADOPTED.
Section 4. This resolution shall take effect ten days following approval.
PASSED AND APPROVED by the City Council of the City of Seward, Alaska,
this24th day of October, 2011.
THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
AL—.
ism
David Seawar • , ayor
AYES: Valdatta, Bardarson, Keil, Shafer, Terry
NOES: Casagranda, Seaward
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
ATTEST:
<<.. %� l2
Johanna Kinney, City Clerk
(City Seal)
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Council Agenda Statement
Meeting Date: October 24, 2011 of sett,
From: W.C. Casey, Public Works Director
Agenda Item: Amending the Water Tariff and Providing 1 1asv ,
Automatic Annual Adjustments to All Rates
The Seward City Council has held two work sessions to discuss the past, current and future financial
and mechanical performance of the wastewater enterprise fund in regards to the 2012 and 2013
Water Capital Budget. Staff was given the opportunity to highlight the critical needs of the
department and offered some recommendations in addressing these critical needs.
Customer rates and charges in the Water's Enterprise Fund, has been amended five times: to adjust
charges for ship's water; a 5% across - the -board increase to all water rates effective January 1, 2004;
a 35% increase in all water rates effective January 1, 2005(78% of which was solely dedicated to the
repayment of the Third Avenue Water Main, ADEC Municipal Loan debt service), 4.8% in 2010 and
5.1% in 2011 in addition to automatic rate increases annually thereafter, equal to the five -year
average CPI effective the first billing cycle of each year, in order to (at a minimum) keep pace with
increased cost increases. The cumulative consumer price index between 1993 and 2008 is in excess
of 40 %. Due to the manner in which the Water Enterprise Fund is operated (similar to private
business entities), expenses and operating costs have gradually begun to exceed revenues.
Generating revenues in a manner that will allow for the funding of critical needs, depreciation,
capital projects, repair and replacement of infrastructure, will require utility rate increases.
Compounding the issue of revenue shortfalls is the ADEC requirement that the Water Fund show
proof for the financial capacity to incur debt. ADEC has sustained its ability to make funds available
through very competitive grants and loans. It is absolutely necessary for the City to maintain and
improve financial viability so the Water Enterprise Fund has the necessary leverage to take
advantage of these funding mechanisms (70 % -30% Municipal Matching Grants and 1.5% Municipal
Loans). Forward thinking in regards to project development and project funding is crucial in order to
make the City eligible for these opportunities.
The 4% rate increase in calendar year 2012 and a 6% increase in calendar year 2013 will provide
necessary critical relief from rising operating costs, improve our financial viability and help buffer
the cost of critical capital infrastructure repairs and replacement. The rate and fee schedule will
resume the automatic annual adjustment by the previous published five years' annual increases in the
Consumer Price Index beginning January 1, 2014. Items of "Critical" importance regarding repair,
maintenance and improvements to the system were identified and will be addressed as financial
viability is achieved.
INTENT: r, '1
U ') ti
The adoption of the proposed amendments to the Water Tariff and resuming the automatic annual
adjustments to all rates and fees will improve the financial condition of the Water Enterprise Fund.
FISCAL NOTE:
Rates and fees are adjusted 4% beginning the first billing cycle of calendar year 2012 and 6%
beginning the first billing cycle of calendar year 2013. The rates thereafter, will resume the
automatic annual adjustment beginning the first billing of each calendar year to reflect an average of
the five previous published years' annual increases in the Consumer Price Index. The projected
operating revenue for calendar year 2011 is $1.1 million. Based on the projected operating revenue
for 2011, a 4% increase to all water rates for calendar year 2012 would increase the operating
revenue by approximately $44,000. Based on the projected operating revenue for 2012, a 6%
increase to all water rates in calendar year 2013 would increase the operating revenue by
approximately $69,000.
Approved by Finance Department: X v,
ATTORNEY REVIEW: Yes No X
RECOMMENDATION:
Council approves Resolution 2011- d'6° amending the Water Tariff and resuming the automatic
annual adjustments to all rates and fees by an amount equal to the five previous full year's average
increase in the Anchorage consumer price index for all urban consumers beginning January 1, 2014.
0 . 3
Water Rates and Charges - 2012
Rates for Water by Class of Service
ANNUAL RATE ADJUSTMENT:
The rates and fees herein provided are adjusted 4% beginning the first
billing cycle of the 2012 calendar year and 6% beginning the first billing cycle of the 2013 calendar year. The
rates thereafter will be adjusted annually beginning the first billing of each calendar year to reflect an average of
the five previous published years’ annual increases in the Consumer Price Index, All Items, 1982-84=100 for all
Urban Consumers, Anchorage, Alaska Area ("CPI") as published by the United States Department of Labor,
Bureau of Labor Statistics. (For example, 2011 rates reflected an increase based on the average CPI for 2004-
2008.)
GROUP A - RESIDENTIAL
Group A includes all residential customers living in single family or multiple family living units. Multiple
family units include multi-plexes, apartments and townhouses, but exclude hotels, motels and similar transient
accommodations. The accounts may be paid by individual occupants or owners of multiple units. When the entire
water service to a multiplex or apartment building is billed to one account, the charge will be based on total number
of living units in the building whether or not occupied. Living units are considered to be complete with kitchens,
baths and plumbing for laundry units. No adjustment is made for the size of the unit, numbers of amenities or the size
of the family occupying the unit. A 25% reduction is permitted for units that are not plumbed for laundry units
provided a common laundry unit is not available in the building or apartment complex for apartment occupants.
There will be no reduction if a common laundry facility is available.
BASIS FOR MONTHLY FEE
Category/Description of Unit Charge
Living unit with plumbing for laundry, or common laundry facility
1 ERU
available on premises
Living unit without plumbing for laundry and no common laundry
0.75 ERU
available for use by the occupant
Rental apartment unit not occupied by owner when billed as a
multiple unit of 3 or more apartments served from a single water 0.75 ERU
service. (No credit will be given for unoccupied units.)
Duplex in one building treated as two residences served from a single
2 ERU
water service
Revised 10/03/2011, Effective 01/01/2012
City of Seward Water Tariff - Page 3-1
Note: ERU = Equivalent Residential Unit (See Page 3-7)
GROUP B - SMALL GENERAL SERVICE
Group B includes commercial enterprises where the use of water is incidental to the commercial activity and is
primarily limited to domestic and janitorial use. This class of service includes such businesses as hotels, motels,
professional office buildings, barber shops, warehouses, libraries, public offices, churches and theaters, etc. Where a
building, mall or group of facilities is served from a single service, the bill will be based on the total number of
.
facilities to be served, and no credit will be given for vacant facilities
BASIS FOR MONTHLY FEE
Category/Description of Unit Charge
Hotels and motels not including bars and restaurants:
1.0 ERU
Basic charge per building
0.3 ERU
PLUS each guest room
0.3 ERU
PLUS each pair of public restrooms in excess of one pair
Office Building/Mall with offices and retail stores and businesses not
including restaurants, bars, food markets:
1.0 ERU
Basic charge per building
0.3 ERU
PLUS each office/activity
0.3 ERU
PLUS each pair of public restrooms in excess of one pair
Single Office/retail shop/professional activity not in office building,
per each office or activity
1.0 ERU
Barber, beauty, animal grooming shop:
Basic charge 1.0 ERU
PLUS charge per chair/tub 0.75 ERU
Libraries, public offices, professional offices, and similar activities:
1.0 ERU
Basic charge per building
0.3 ERU
PLUS each office/activity
0.3 ERU
PLUS each pair of public restrooms in excess of one pair
Doctors' offices, including medical clinics, emergency first aid
station, dentists' offices and similar activities:
1.0 ERU
Basic charge per facility
0.5 ERU
PLUS per each examination room, dental chair or similar unit
0.3 ERU
PLUS per each office
Revised 10/03/2011, Effective 01/01/2012
City of Seward Water Tariff - Page 3-2
Warehouses:
Basic charge per building 1.0 ERU
PLUS each pair of restrooms or showers exceeding one pair 0.3 ERU
Churches, theaters, assembly halls, clubs, fraternal clubs:
Basic charge per building 1.0 ERU
PLUS each pair of restrooms exceeding one pair 0.3 ERU
PLUS, for food/bar service, add charge for restaurant or bar
Public restrooms in parks and similar activities, per each pair of
1.0 ERU
restrooms
Boardwalk shops with sewage, per shop 0.5 ERU
Camping & RV Parks:
Per spigot 0.5 ERU
Per camper/motorhome hookup 0.2 ERU
Private schools, day care centers
2.0 ERU
Basic charge
0.5 ERU
PLUS per each 15 students or for children in excess of 25
Public baths and showers:
Basic charge 2.0 ERU
PLUS per each bath or shower in excess of two 0.5 ERU
NOTE: Only one basic charge will be assessed per building where different activities occupy
the same building. This does not exclude residential charges for living units within the
same building.
Revised 10/03/2011, Effective 01/01/2012
City of Seward Water Tariff - Page 3-3
GROUP C - LARGE GENERAL SERVICE
Group C includes commercial enterprises where water usage is greater than in Small General services and/or
water is used for food preparation or other activities, but not for industrial processing. These activities will be
metered when newly constructed or when remodeling and/or repairs makes installation of meters feasible. When a
building, mall or group of facilities is served from a single service, the bill will be based on the total number of
.
facilities served, and no credit will be given for vacant facilities
BASIS FOR MONTHLY FEE
Category/Description of Unit Charge
Food/grocery markets:
Basic charge 3.0 ERU
PLUS per water-cooled refrigeration unit 3.0 ERU
PLUS per butcher/meat packing unit 1.0 ERU
PLUS per bakery 1.0 ERU
PLUS per snack bar/Deli 0.5 ERU
Restaurants and/or bars (A unit may be defined as a combination
restaurant/bar if operated together or separate units if restaurant
and bar are operated separately.) This category includes all drink
and food service activities, including full service restaurants,
hospital kitchens, dormitories, dining halls, school cafeterias, etc.:
Basic charge per unit 2.0 ERU
PLUS per every 8 seats in excess of 8 seats 0.5 ERU
Snack Bar - no seating 0.5 ERU
Garage/gas stations and retail, manufacturing and repair shops not
using water for processing:
Basic charge 2.0 ERU
PLUS per pair of restrooms exceeding one pair 0.3 ERU
PLUS per each shower 0.3 ERU
PLUS per each wash bay 1.0 ERU
Revised 10/03/2011, Effective 01/01/2012
City of Seward Water Tariff - Page 3-4
Public schools, if non-metered, excluding swimming pools or food
service:
Basic charge
Elementary School
Jr. High School
High School 7.0 ERU
PLUS swimming pool 7.0 ERU
PLUS charge for food service based on rate for restaurants 8.0 ERU
15.0 ERU
(Pg. 3-4)
Hospital & Nursing Homes, if un-metered, excluding food service:
Basic charge 6.0 ERU
PLUS charge for food service based on rate for restaurants (Pg. 3-4)
Laundry (self service or commercial units), un-metered [ew
n
laundries will be metered]:
2.0 ERU
Basic charge
1.0 ERU
PLUS per each laundry unit of 12 pounds or less capacity
2.0 ERU
PLUS per each laundry unit larger than 12 pounds capacity
Revised 10/03/2011, Effective 01/01/2012
City of Seward Water Tariff - Page 3-5
GROUP D - METERED COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL SERVICE
Group D includes commercial and industrial enterprises where water usage is greater than for small businesses
and/or water is used for food preparation, other activities and industrial processing as well as general domestic users.
All new activities shall be metered, and existing facilities will be converted to meters when remodeling and repairs
make installation of a meter feasible. Meters must include readouts at a location acceptable to the City, to allow for
accurate meter readings.
The cost of initial installation of a meter in a new facility will be paid by the customer. The cost of
maintenance, repair and replacement of the meter will be at customer expense. The customer will provide a meter,
and the user will pay the cost of installation, where an existing service is converted to meter and the commercial
use/activities of the user have not changed. If the meter is required due to changed usage, the customer will pay all
costs, including the cost of the meter. In all cases, the City will specify and/or approve the type of meter and its
installation.
A customer may request to be converted to meter rates. If the customer request is approved to convert to
meter rates, the customer will install a meter at the customer's expense, and thereafter charges will be based on
metered usage. A customer cannot convert from metered to fixed rate billing.
BASIS FOR MONTHLY FEE
Minimum Charge for Each Metered Service
Service Size Minimum Monthly Charge
3/4" - 1" Service $19.48
1-1/2" - 2" Service $38.97
2-1/4" - 4" Service $196.48
Over 4" Service $982.37
Note: The minimum charge per metered service does not include fire sprinkler service.
Charge for Consumption
Consumption per Month per Meter Charge per 1,000 Gallons
First 50,000 Gallons $4.92
Next 500,000 Gallons $3.92
Next 1,000,000 Gallons $2.95
Next 2,000,000 Gallons $2.45
Next 2,000,000 Gallons $1.25
Revised 10/03/2011, Effective 01/01/2012
City of Seward Water Tariff - Page 3-6
Next 5,000,000 Gallons $1.25
All Additional Gallons $1.25
The consumption metered on several metered services serving the same owner will not be combined to
calculate the monthly bill. Each will be computed as a separate bill. The City may negotiate or renegotiate
special contracts with a user that consumes in excess of 20 million gallons of water per calendar year. Such
contracts will set or amend a rate which will assure that the user pays its full share of the utility's fixed and
variable operating and maintenance costs. All special contracts and renegotiations of existing special contracts
shall be approved by resolution of the City Council.
Revised 10/03/2011, Effective 01/01/2012
City of Seward Water Tariff - Page 3-7
GROUP E - SPECIAL RATES AND FEES
Group E includes charges for other categories of service not included in Groups A through D.
1. Equivalent Residential Unit (ERU) $39.15
2. Fire Hydrant Use Permit: From May 1 to Tapping Fee $81.19
August 31 a Fire Hydrant Permit may be PLUS daily fee: $40.59
issued. Fire Hydrants will be turned on and PLUS weekly fee: $243.57
off by Water or Fire Department Personnel.
If the City determines that a meter and a
backflow preventer are required, these will
also be installed by Water Department
personnel. This rate is set for contractors
or other temporary water users, but not for
bulk water service to ships or tanker trucks
serving ships or industries, as follows:
3. Water Service Connection Fee (done by Up to 1" service not longer than 60 feet, one time
City): charge of $2,273.26.
In excess of 60 feet - actual cost, but not less
than$2,273.26.
PLUS cost of paving and curb replacement.
Done by Contractor: $136.64 connection fee PLUS cost of paving and
curb replacement.
4. Water Service Inspection Fee (for service $81.19
installed by others):
Revised 10/03/2011, Effective 01/01/2012
City of Seward Water Tariff - Page 3-8
5. Water Turn-On or Turn-Off (per visit, First turn-on and/or turn-off: -0-
excluding new service and new account
name): No charge for the first turn-on for All other turn-ons or turn-offs:
new service or new account. Seasonal turn- During business hours: $40.59
on/turn-off is not classified as a new During non-business hours: $121.77
account and will be charged as " Seasonal
turn-ons or turn-offs." Seasonal turn-ons and turn-offs: $136.64
6. Unauthorized Use of City Equipment $811.88
(including fire hydrants, key boxes, turn-on
and/or turn-off:
7. Restoration of Water Service (including Actual cost, including city overhead,
repair of damage by owner or contractor to labor, materials and equipment.
city facilities)
8. Locate Service:
Locate between May 1 and Oct. 31 - no
charge
Locate between Nov. 1 and April 30 -
$121.77
Large projects requiring several locates
will be under a special agreement with the
water utility and may include an additional fee.
9. Thaw Wire: Locate between May 1 and Oct. 31 - no
charge
Locate between Nov. 1 and April 30 - $121.77
.
10. Security Deposit: Domestic (Single Fam. & Duplex) $40.59
Commercial & Multiple Dwellings:$121.77
Fire Hydrant usage: $243.57
Revised 10/03/2011, Effective 01/01/2012
City of Seward Water Tariff - Page 3-9
11. Contractor Work: Any contractor tapping into a city main, or
otherwise working on a city water line, must be
properly licensed to perform the work and must
also provide a $5,000.00 bond or equivalent cash
guarantee payable to the city.
12. Ship Water (Water furnished to Less than 1,000 gallons from Seward Small Boat
temporarily moored vessels): Harbor facilities not requiring city assistance or
the use of fire hydrants: No Charge
All service not included above:
Basic Charge (during regular business hours):
$81.19
Basic Charge (outside regular business hours)
@
$162.38
PLUS $7.56 per 1000 gallons for all water
used.
Note: Customer will be responsible for actual
charges related to all work and materials required
to provide water to vessel. The Point of delivery
for potable water supplied by the City shall be at
the customer side of the meter/backflow preventer,
and the customer is responsible for water quality
from the delivery point to the vessel.
Revised 10/03/2011, Effective 01/01/2012
City of Seward Water Tariff - Page 3-10
Water Rates and Charges - 2013
Rates for Water by Class of Service
ANNUAL RATE ADJUSTMENT:
The rates and fees herein provided are adjusted 6% beginning the first
billing cycle of the 2013 calendar year. The rates thereafter will be adjusted annually beginning the first billing of
each calendar year to reflect an average of the five previous published years’ annual increases in the Consumer
Price Index, All Items, 1982-84=100 for all Urban Consumers, Anchorage, Alaska Area ("CPI") as published by
the United States Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics. (For example, 2011 rates reflected an
increase based on the average CPI for 2004-2008.)
GROUP A - RESIDENTIAL
Group A includes all residential customers living in single family or multiple family living units. Multiple
family units include multi-plexes, apartments and townhouses, but exclude hotels, motels and similar transient
accommodations. The accounts may be paid by individual occupants or owners of multiple units. When the entire
water service to a multiplex or apartment building is billed to one account, the charge will be based on total number
of living units in the building whether or not occupied. Living units are considered to be complete with kitchens,
baths and plumbing for laundry units. No adjustment is made for the size of the unit, numbers of amenities or the size
of the family occupying the unit. A 25% reduction is permitted for units that are not plumbed for laundry units
provided a common laundry unit is not available in the building or apartment complex for apartment occupants.
There will be no reduction if a common laundry facility is available.
BASIS FOR MONTHLY FEE
Category/Description of Unit Charge
Living unit with plumbing for laundry, or common laundry facility
1 ERU
available on premises
Living unit without plumbing for laundry and no common laundry
0.75 ERU
available for use by the occupant
Rental apartment unit not occupied by owner when billed as a
multiple unit of 3 or more apartments served from a single water 0.75 ERU
service. (No credit will be given for unoccupied units.)
Duplex in one building treated as two residences served from a single
2 ERU
water service
Note: ERU = Equivalent Residential Unit (See Page 3-7)
Revised 10/03/2011, Effective 01/01/2013
City of Seward Water Tariff - Page 3-1
GROUP B - SMALL GENERAL SERVICE
Group B includes commercial enterprises where the use of water is incidental to the commercial activity and is
primarily limited to domestic and janitorial use. This class of service includes such businesses as hotels, motels,
professional office buildings, barber shops, warehouses, libraries, public offices, churches and theaters, etc. Where a
building, mall or group of facilities is served from a single service, the bill will be based on the total number of
.
facilities to be served, and no credit will be given for vacant facilities
BASIS FOR MONTHLY FEE
Category/Description of Unit Charge
Hotels and motels not including bars and restaurants:
1.0 ERU
Basic charge per building
0.3 ERU
PLUS each guest room
0.3 ERU
PLUS each pair of public restrooms in excess of one pair
Office Building/Mall with offices and retail stores and businesses not
including restaurants, bars, food markets:
1.0 ERU
Basic charge per building
0.3 ERU
PLUS each office/activity
0.3 ERU
PLUS each pair of public restrooms in excess of one pair
Single Office/retail shop/professional activity not in office building,
per each office or activity
1.0 ERU
Barber, beauty, animal grooming shop:
Basic charge 1.0 ERU
PLUS charge per chair/tub 0.75 ERU
Libraries, public offices, professional offices, and similar activities:
1.0 ERU
Basic charge per building
0.3 ERU
PLUS each office/activity
0.3 ERU
PLUS each pair of public restrooms in excess of one pair
Doctors' offices, including medical clinics, emergency first aid
station, dentists' offices and similar activities:
1.0 ERU
Basic charge per facility
0.5 ERU
PLUS per each examination room, dental chair or similar unit
0.3 ERU
PLUS per each office
Revised 10/03/2011, Effective 01/01/2013
City of Seward Water Tariff - Page 3-2
Warehouses:
Basic charge per building 1.0 ERU
PLUS each pair of restrooms or showers exceeding one pair 0.3 ERU
Churches, theaters, assembly halls, clubs, fraternal clubs:
Basic charge per building 1.0 ERU
PLUS each pair of restrooms exceeding one pair 0.3 ERU
PLUS, for food/bar service, add charge for restaurant or bar
Public restrooms in parks and similar activities, per each pair of
1.0 ERU
restrooms
Boardwalk shops with sewage, per shop 0.5 ERU
Camping & RV Parks:
Per spigot 0.5 ERU
Per camper/motorhome hookup 0.2 ERU
Private schools, day care centers
2.0 ERU
Basic charge
0.5 ERU
PLUS per each 15 students or for children in excess of 25
Public baths and showers:
Basic charge 2.0 ERU
PLUS per each bath or shower in excess of two 0.5 ERU
NOTE: Only one basic charge will be assessed per building where different activities occupy
the same building. This does not exclude residential charges for living units within the
same building.
Revised 10/03/2011, Effective 01/01/2013
City of Seward Water Tariff - Page 3-3
GROUP C - LARGE GENERAL SERVICE
Group C includes commercial enterprises where water usage is greater than in Small General services and/or
water is used for food preparation or other activities, but not for industrial processing. These activities will be
metered when newly constructed or when remodeling and/or repairs makes installation of meters feasible. When a
building, mall or group of facilities is served from a single service, the bill will be based on the total number of
.
facilities served, and no credit will be given for vacant facilities
BASIS FOR MONTHLY FEE
Category/Description of Unit Charge
Food/grocery markets:
Basic charge 3.0 ERU
PLUS per water-cooled refrigeration unit 3.0 ERU
PLUS per butcher/meat packing unit 1.0 ERU
PLUS per bakery 1.0 ERU
PLUS per snack bar/Deli 0.5 ERU
Restaurants and/or bars (A unit may be defined as a combination
restaurant/bar if operated together or separate units if restaurant
and bar are operated separately.) This category includes all drink
and food service activities, including full service restaurants,
hospital kitchens, dormitories, dining halls, school cafeterias, etc.:
Basic charge per unit 2.0 ERU
PLUS per every 8 seats in excess of 8 seats 0.5 ERU
Snack Bar - no seating 0.5 ERU
Garage/gas stations and retail, manufacturing and repair shops not
using water for processing:
Basic charge 2.0 ERU
PLUS per pair of restrooms exceeding one pair 0.3 ERU
PLUS per each shower 0.3 ERU
PLUS per each wash bay 1.0 ERU
Revised 10/03/2011, Effective 01/01/2013
City of Seward Water Tariff - Page 3-4
Public schools, if non-metered, excluding swimming pools or food
service:
Basic charge
Elementary School
Jr. High School
High School 7.0 ERU
PLUS swimming pool 7.0 ERU
PLUS charge for food service based on rate for restaurants 8.0 ERU
15.0 ERU
(Pg. 3-4)
Hospital & Nursing Homes, if un-metered, excluding food service:
Basic charge 6.0 ERU
PLUS charge for food service based on rate for restaurants (Pg. 3-4)
Laundry (self service or commercial units), un-metered [ew
n
laundries will be metered]:
2.0 ERU
Basic charge
1.0 ERU
PLUS per each laundry unit of 12 pounds or less capacity
2.0 ERU
PLUS per each laundry unit larger than 12 pounds capacity
Revised 10/03/2011, Effective 01/01/2013
City of Seward Water Tariff - Page 3-5
GROUP D - METERED COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL SERVICE
Group D includes commercial and industrial enterprises where water usage is greater than for small businesses
and/or water is used for food preparation, other activities and industrial processing as well as general domestic users.
All new activities shall be metered, and existing facilities will be converted to meters when remodeling and repairs
make installation of a meter feasible. Meters must include readouts at a location acceptable to the City, to allow for
accurate meter readings.
The cost of initial installation of a meter in a new facility will be paid by the customer. The cost of
maintenance, repair and replacement of the meter will be at customer expense. The customer will provide a meter,
and the user will pay the cost of installation, where an existing service is converted to meter and the commercial
use/activities of the user have not changed. If the meter is required due to changed usage, the customer will pay all
costs, including the cost of the meter. In all cases, the City will specify and/or approve the type of meter and its
installation.
A customer may request to be converted to meter rates. If a the customer request is approved to convert to
meter rates, the customer will install a meter at the customer's expense, and thereafter charges will be based on
metered usage. A customer cannot convert from metered to fixed rate billing.
BASIS FOR MONTHLY FEE
Minimum Charge for Each Metered Service
Service Size Minimum Monthly Charge
3/4" - 1" Service $20.65
1-1/2" - 2" Service $41.31
2-1/4" - 4" Service $208.28
Over 4" Service $1,041.31 9
Note: The minimum charge per metered service does not include fire sprinkler service.
Charge for Consumption
Consumption per Month per Meter Charge per 1,000 Gallons
First 50,000 Gallons $5.22
Next 500,000 Gallons $4.16
Next 1,000,000 Gallons $3.13
Next 2,000,000 Gallons $2.60
Next 2,000,000 Gallons $1.33
Revised 10/03/2011, Effective 01/01/2013
City of Seward Water Tariff - Page 3-6
Next 5,000,000 Gallons $1.33
All Additional Gallons $1.33
The consumption metered on several metered services serving the same owner will not be combined to
calculate the monthly bill. Each will be computed as a separate bill.
The City may negotiate or renegotiate special contracts with a user that consumes in excess of 20 million
gallons of water per calendar year. Such contracts will set or amend a rate which will assure that the user pays
its full share of the utility's fixed and variable operating and maintenance costs. All special contracts and
renegotiations of existing special contracts shall be approved by resolution of the City Council.
Revised 10/03/2011, Effective 01/01/2013
City of Seward Water Tariff - Page 3-7
GROUP E - SPECIAL RATES AND FEES
Group E includes charges for other categories of service not included in Groups A through D.
1. Equivalent Residential Unit (ERU) $41.50
2. Fire Hydrant Use Permit: From May 1 to Tapping Fee $86.06 81.19
August 31 a Fire Hydrant Permit may be PLUS daily fee: $43.03
issued. Fire Hydrants will be turned on and PLUS weekly fee: $258.18
off by Water or Fire Department Personnel.
If the City determines that a meter and a
backflow preventer are required, these will
also be installed by Water Department
personnel. This rate is set for contractors
or other temporary water users, but not for
bulk water service to ships or tanker trucks
serving ships or industries, as follows:
3. Water Service Connection Fee (done by Up to 1" service not longer than 60 feet, one time
City): charge of $2,409.66.
In excess of 60 feet - actual cost, but not less than
$2,409.66.
PLUS cost of paving and curb replacement.
Done by Contractor: $144.84 connection fee PLUS cost of paving and
curb replacement.
4. Water Service Inspection Fee (for service $86.06
installed by others):
Revised 10/03/2011, Effective 01/01/2013
City of Seward Water Tariff - Page 3-8
5. Water Turn-On or Turn-Off (per visit, First turn-on and/or turn-off: -0-
excluding new service and new account
name): No charge for the first turn-on for All other turn-ons or turn-offs:
new service or new account. Seasonal turn- During business hours: $43.03
on/turn-off is not classified as a new During non-business hours: $129.08
account and will be charged as " Seasonal
turn-ons or turn-offs." Seasonal turn-ons and turn-offs: $144.84
6. Unauthorized Use of City Equipment $860.60
(including fire hydrants, key boxes, turn-on
and/or turn-off:
7. Restoration of Water Service (including Actual cost, including city overhead,
repair of damage by owner or contractor to labor, materials and equipment.
city facilities)
8. Locate Service:
Locate between May 1 and Oct. 31 - no
charge
Locate between Nov. 1 and April 30 -
$129.08
Large projects requiring several locates
will be under a special agreement with the
water utility and may include an additional fee.
9. Thaw Wire: Locate between May 1 and Oct. 31 - no
charge
Locate between Nov. 1 and April 30 - $129.08
.
10. Security Deposit: Domestic (Single Fam. & Duplex) $43.03
Commercial & Multiple Dwellings: $129.08
Fire Hydrant usage: $258.18
Revised 10/03/2011, Effective 01/01/2013
City of Seward Water Tariff - Page 3-9
11. Contractor Work: Any contractor tapping into a city main, or
otherwise working on a city water line, must be
properly licensed to perform the work and must
also provide a $5,000.00 bond or equivalent cash
guarantee payable to the city.
12. Ship Water (Water furnished to Less than 1,000 gallons from Seward Small Boat
temporarily moored vessels): Harbor facilities not requiring city assistance or
the use of fire hydrants: No Charge
All service not included above:
Basic Charge (during regular business hours):
$86.06
Basic Charge (outside regular business hours)
@
$172.12
PLUS $8.01 per 1000 gallons for all water
used.
Note: Customer will be responsible for actual
charges related to all work and materials required
to provide water to vessel. The Point of delivery
for potable water supplied by the City shall be at
the customer side of the meter/backflow preventer,
and the customer is responsible for water quality
from the delivery point to the vessel.
Revised 10/03/2011, Effective 01/01/2013
City of Seward Water Tariff - Page 3-10