2024 Proposed Rate Increase Model
Following the completion of a comprehensive Rate Study in 2024, CBJ is proposing the following rate increase schedule, effective July 1, 2025. The rates shown below are for Residential Flat Rate customers, and are representative in nature. Rate adjustments apply to all customers.
The table below shows one scenario that has been presented and is reflective of the Proposition 3 Bond passing during the October 2024 Municipal election. Other scenarios with lower rate increases do exist, specifically if the Utility takes on debt service to pay for projects. To view these scenarios, view the 2024 Rate Study Presentation below.
Example Scenario: Flat Rate Residential Customers
| Effective Date | Water % | Water Bill | Sewer % | Sewer Bill | Total Bill |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Current (as of July 1, 2024) | N/A | $40.72/mo | N/A | $106.08/mo | $146.80/mo |
| July 1, 2025 | 10.25% | $44.89/mo | 12.75% | $119.61/mo | $164.50/mo |
| July 1, 2026 | 10.25% | $49.50/mo | 12.75% | $134.85/mo | $184.35/mo |
| July 1, 2027 | 10.25% | $54.57/mo | 12.75% | $152.05/mo | $206.62/mo |
| July 1, 2028 | 10.25% | $60.16/mo | 12.25% | $170.67/mo | $230.83/mo |
| July 1, 2029 | 10.25% | $66.33/mo | 12.25% | $191.58/mo | $257.91/mo |
Frequently Asked Questions
The CBJ water and sewer system is large and complex. Although CBJ has placed an emphasis on maintaining our infrastructure, much of which has performed past its useful lifespan, there are areas and equipment that require updating or replacement. Costs associated with proper ongoing maintenance of facilities and systems have also increased over the past several years.
Previous rate studies have recommended larger rate increases that were not fully adopted by previous City Assemblies, which has left the Utility in a revenue deficit. Although the Utility has ensured that funding is available for critical maintenance and repair needs, reduced revenue overall has resulted in a significantly increased deferred maintenance backlog.
Raising rates now will allow the Utility to invest in critical repairs and replacements for both the water and wastewater systems in Juneau. This will ensure properly maintained, hygienic, and safe water & sewer systems for CBJ residents in the coming decades.
The proposed rate increase would be applied equally to all customer types for both water and wastewater.
Utility Rates are determined by the City Assembly and become effective through adopted CBJ Ordinance.
The CBJ utility is an enterprise fund – that is, it is self-supporting. Outside of any special funding (i.e. grants, bonds, loans), the ratepayer provides funding that covers the full cost of running the city’s large and intricate water and wastewater systems. This includes capital improvement projects, major facility upkeep, operational costs, and salaries.