Wayland sewer board reviews four FY25 rate options, including 28.7 percent hike

WAYLAND -- April 8, 2024, Wayland's wastewater commission opens FY25 rate process with options ranging from 6 to 28.7 percent. Consultant Matt Abrahams presented four scenarios Monday, all assuming a new 20-year, $200,000 borrowing at 4.5 percent for fine screens plus $105,000 in annual small capital. Chair Michael Gitten and member Darrin Bock leaned toward an 8 percent annual path, with Gitten saying he "appreciated the creativity" of the blended options that draw on retained earnings for rate relief. DPW Director Thomas Holder confirmed the FY25 borrowing window has closed, forcing the small-capital cost into rates. Commissioners also unanimously approved a revised privilege-fee policy raising the fee from $22 to $24.75 per gallon and setting tiered review thresholds at 1,500 and 3,000 gallons per day. The district's December incident cost has reached roughly $90,717, while interest earnings have hit $22,291 against a $1,300 forecast. The rate hearing is set for 1 p.m. June 17.