Winchester Utilities Increases Water and Sewer Rates to Offset Rising Costs

WINCHESTER, Tenn. — For the first time since 2018, Winchester Utilities has raised water and sewer rates to cover rising operational expenses driven by inflation and increased energy costs. The rate adjustments, which took effect July 1, were detailed during the Oct. 14 City Council meeting.

Jim Marshall, principal with Jackson Thornton—an accounting and consulting firm hired by Winchester Utilities to conduct a cost-of-service study—told council members that the utility’s water system fell short by $518,000 on a $5.4 million revenue requirement, while the sewer system ran a $634,000 deficit on a $3.9 million requirement. To close those gaps, the study recommended increasing the volume rate by 75 cents per 1,000 gallons for both water and sewer service this year, with another identical increase advised for next year pending board approval.

Under the new rates, a typical residence using 4,000 gallons per month now pays $83.65 for combined water and sewer service—up from $76.17, a 9.8% total increase. The water rate rose by 20.11%, while the sewer rate climbed 4.48%.

             General Manager George Powell said the utility’s costs have risen sharply, particularly due to higher electricity rates needed to power the wastewater system’s 80 pumps. “When we have to increase rates, we want to do it responsibly,” Powell said. “Our personnel have done everything possible to keep expenditures low.”

Despite the financial pressures, Powell praised staff for maintaining award-winning performance. Winchester Utilities has twice earned statewide recognition for having Tennessee’s best-tasting water, with Water Plant Manager Adam Denton and Assistant General Manager Jason Allman both honored for their work.

Stay informed and stay connected to 931GO.com and ESPN Radio Winchester.