Portland Water District’s board of trustees have unanimously approved a combined $42 million water and wastewater operating budget, a 3.8% increase over 2016. Â
Much of the increase is related to infrastructure maintenance and improvements, including water main replacement, and wastewater treatment plant and pump station upgrades.
In addition to the operating budget, a $18.7 million capital improvement plan was approved. Â The plan allocates $10.8 million in water distribution system upgrades and $6.7 million in wastewater collection system and treatment facility projects.
The budget assumes a mid-year water rate increase of 1.67%, according to Michelle Clements, public relations manager of the Portland Water District. In the coming months, the board will consider a water rate increase.
Wastewater rates are determined separately by local municipalities.
