Why are the water rates different for different areas?

There are a couple factors causing TriRiver Water to have so many different water rates at this time.

The first is because Sanford, Pittsboro, Chatham, and Siler City all remain different cost centers -- for now. Mergers brought these different water systems together in name and operation, but the systems have not yet been physically connected.

That means they're still their own separate cost centers: Fees paid by customers in one cost center go to funding operations in that cost center.

A major goal for the mergers is for Sanford, Pittsboro, Chatham, and Siler City to achieve rate parity. That cannot happen until capital improvement projects to physically connect the systems are financed and completed. This process was required by each area's merger agreement to ensure customers in one cost center were not unfairly subsidizing another group. Once the capital improvement projects are complete, customers can merge into the same cost center fairly and begin spreading operation costs among the wider customer base -- thus reducing the cost per customer.

Another factor creating different water rates is the standard practice of having an inside city and outside city rate. Many municipalities have this in place due to the higher costs associated with expanding and operating water systems outside municipal boundaries. 

Achieving the goal of rate parity would effectively eliminate these different rate structures, streamlining the billing process for all customers.

History of rate changes

Sanford has a historical reputation of forward thinking and successful utility management. Sanford leaders have been able to stay ahead of water and sewer developments while also working to keep rates as affordable as possible.

Still, rate increases are a reality of utility services. Operational costs are always increasing, and capital improvements are necessary for a region committed to growth and expansion. 

As Sanford Water Department has transitioned into TriRiver Water, utility leadership is committed to continuing to bolster that reputation of forward thinking success and good financial stewardship. 

Sanford Rate Changes

Pittsboro Rate Changes