Passed by the Highfill City Council: November 10, 2026.
On Tuesday, November 10, 2026, the Highfill City Council passed Ordinance 2026-23 Amending Water and Wastewater Rates, updating water, wastewater, connection, deposit, and service fees for utility customers. The ordinance was adopted to help the City cover ongoing operational costs and establishes new rates that will take effect on January 1, 2027.
At a Glance: What This Ordinance Does
• Updates water rates and monthly base fees for customers both inside and outside the City limits.
• Establishes new wastewater service charges effective January 1, 2027.
• Maintains additional monthly utility fees, including meter replacement, safe water, and supplier surcharge fees.
• Updates security deposit requirements for residential, commercial, and fire hydrant meter accounts.
• Establishes water and wastewater connection fees, road bore permit fees, and service charges.
• Sets utility reconnect and miscellaneous service fees.
Summary for Residents
This ordinance updates the City’s utility rate structure to ensure that water and wastewater services remain financially sustainable as operational costs increase. Beginning January 1, 2027, customers will see updated monthly base fees, usage rates, connection fees, deposits, and related utility service charges. Rates continue to vary depending on meter size, customer classification, and whether service is provided inside or outside City limits.
Detailed Overview
Water Rate Adjustments
The ordinance establishes new monthly base charges and usage rates for water customers. Separate rate schedules apply to customers located within City limits and those receiving service outside City limits. Charges vary based on meter size and customer classification, including residential, commercial, industrial, wholesale, and agricultural users.
Wastewater Service Fees
The ordinance sets the minimum monthly wastewater charge at $19.86 per user and establishes a wastewater usage rate of $11.08 per 1,000 gallons.
Connection Fees and Deposits
The ordinance updates security deposit requirements and utility connection fees for new service installations. Water connection fees vary depending on meter size, while wastewater tap fees and road bore permit fees are also established within the updated fee schedule.
Additional Service Charges
Residents and customers should also be aware of updated utility-related fees, including meter replacement fund contributions, Safe Water Act fees, supplier surcharges, reconnect fees for non-payment, returned check fees, and miscellaneous service call charges.
Effective Date
All updated rates and fees established by Ordinance 2026-23 become effective January 1, 2027.