Newark Water Rates (2008)
Date
2008-10-17
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This report presents the initial findings of a comprehensive water rate survey conducted among over 60 water purveyors across Delaware and neighboring states, including Maryland, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Focused on the six public and private water suppliers in New Castle County, the survey is updated every four years, with previous editions released in 2000 and 2004. Historical data from the 2000 survey indicated that Newark's water rates were among the lowest in the surveyed regions, positioned in the bottom 10th percentile. This earlier survey facilitated Newark's incremental adjustments to its water rates, ensuring affordability for residents while financing the Newark Reservoir. Currently, Newark's water rates have risen to the 30th percentile, maintaining a competitive position compared to other purveyors. As of the latest survey, Newark's rates are set at $3.51 per 1,000 gallons, translating to approximately $211 annually per customer based on an average residential consumption of 15,000 gallons per quarter. For customers outside city limits, the rate is $4.63 per 1,000 gallons, amounting to about $278 per year. These rates remain significantly lower than those of other local municipalities, such as the City of New Castle ($402/year), and private providers like United Water Delaware ($326/year) and Artesian Water Company ($506/year).