During a regularly scheduled meeting on 12/9/2022, the Birch Bay Water & Sewer Commissioners voted to approve the proposed fiscal year 2022 budget:
Operating Expenses – $4,314,268
Capital Expenses – $1,786,000
Debt Service Payments – $608,644
2022 Budget Total Expenditures – $6,708,912
Sandi McMillan, District Finance Director, shares that the Board reviewed a 10 year Revenue Requirement plan that includes capital facilities projects needed in the Wastewater Treatment Plant and Water Distribution system. She notes the growing District as employing 15 staff and serving the largest urban growth area in Whatcom county with nearly 8,000 water and sewer connections. Capital projects this year will include completion of the Automated Water Meter installation project which will identify leaks quicker and reduce meter reading time which allows staff to focus on infrastructure maintenance. The Wastewater Treatment Plant capital improvements include Pump Station #3 to #4 improvements at Alderson Road.
The rate increase for 2022 was approved by the Commissioners at 2.15%. Mrs. McMillan noted this is far below current inflation rates and that the Board of Commissioners voiced direction to keep rates as low as possible while still planning for needed infrastructure upgrades. The fixed basic portion of the residential water and sewer bi-monthly bill will increase from $77.30 to $79.00. An average use for 60 days of water and sewer service at 1,200 cf of water will be billed $131 for that two months.
