SARALAND, Ala. — Saraland Water & Sewer customers will see slightly higher bills beginning this month. The utility is raising water rates by 2.5% and sewer rates by 5%, and the new Saraland water rates will appear on October statements.
The utility described the change as a moderate increase needed to keep up with rising operating costs while maintaining the reliable service residents depend on every day.
What the increase means for a typical bill
Saraland Water & Sewer released two examples showing how the new rates affect a combined monthly water and sewer bill:
- Minimum-usage customer: The monthly bill rises from $37.48 to $38.99, an increase of $1.51.
- Average-usage customer: The monthly bill rises from $64.18 to $66.76, an increase of $2.58.
In both examples, the total bill goes up by roughly 4%. Over a full year, that works out to about $18 more for a minimum-usage household and about $31 more for an average-usage household, assuming usage stays the same from month to month.
The overall percentage on a bill falls between the two announced rates because the sewer portion, which is rising by 5%, makes up a substantial share of a combined bill, while the water portion is rising by a smaller 2.5%.
Why rates are going up
According to the utility, the adjustments are meant to offset rising costs for materials, power, fuel and other operating expenses, while continuing to support the safe and clean service residents count on.
Those cost categories reflect the basic work of running a water and sewer system. Pumping and treating water and wastewater requires a steady supply of electricity. Crews use fuel as they respond to leaks, read meters and maintain lines. Pipe, fittings, valves, treatment chemicals and replacement equipment are all needed to repair aging infrastructure and extend service to new customers. When the prices of those inputs rise, utilities that rely on customer rates rather than tax dollars generally must adjust what they charge to keep their systems running and in compliance with health and environmental standards.
The utility noted that the system’s reliability is something the community depends on daily, from drinking water and household use to fire protection and sanitation.
Why sewer is rising faster than water
The sewer rate increase is twice the size of the water increase. The utility did not break down the reasons for the difference, but wastewater systems commonly carry heavy operating costs. Collecting sewage, moving it through lift stations and treating it before discharge involves energy-intensive pumping and treatment, along with ongoing maintenance of pipes and pumps that operate around the clock.
A growing community
The rate change comes as Saraland continues to invest in its future. The north Mobile County city has drawn attention this year for new recreation projects, including a $2.6 million federal Brownfields grant to help clear the way for more athletic fields at The Land and a $2.5 million grant for an overhaul of a Saraland boat launch. Residents of the College Woods neighborhood have also petitioned to leave Prichard and join Saraland. As a city grows, demand on its water and sewer system grows with it.
What customers should know
Customers do not need to take any action for the new rates to apply. The updated charges will be reflected automatically on October statements.
Residents who want to keep their bills in check can take a few simple steps:
- Check for leaks. A running toilet or dripping faucet can waste a significant amount of water and add to both water and sewer charges.
- Compare your statements. Looking at usage from month to month can help spot unusual spikes that may point to a leak.
- Water outdoors wisely. Watering lawns early in the morning or in the evening reduces evaporation.
- Ask questions. Customers with questions about their bills, the new rates or payment options should contact Saraland Water & Sewer directly.
The utility said the modest adjustment is intended to keep Saraland’s water and sewer service dependable as costs continue to climb.