Bryson council approves water, sewer rate increases

Water customers in Bryson can expect an increase to water and sewer fees on their bill starting in November after city council members voted Monday, Oct. 13 to increase rates.

The water rate increase comes as Fort Belknap Water Supply Corporation in Graham increased its rate to the city from $7.76 per 1,000 gallons used to $8.75 per 1,000 gallons used—an increase of 99 cents effective Wednesday, Oct. 15 for the city of Bryson.

Most of the city’s water is drawn from a well but part of the supply in Bryson is purchased from Fort Belknap WSC to supplement usage. Different factors like water quality and quantity, as well as facility and infrastructure maintenance can affect how much water is purchased.

All water customers within city limits will pay a fixed rate of $48 for the first 2,000 gallons of water used. For every 1,000 gallons used over the initial 2,000 gallons, customers will be charged a fixed rate of $11.75.

Water customers outside city limits will pay a fixed rate of $53 for the first 2,000 gallons of water used. For every 1,000 gallons over the initial 2,000 gallons, customers will be charged a fixed rate of $11.75.

The city also increased sewer service rates to help fund a new wastewater treatment plant.

“It looks a lot better when we apply for grants if we’ve made an effort to increase revenue,” Bryson Mayor Luticia Ford said. “When we’re asking for a grant it’s because we don’t have the money to pay for something, so we have to make an effort to increase our revenue.”

Residential sewer service rates will increase to $17 for the first 2,000 gallons used. All amounts exceeding 2,000 gallons would be charged an additional $3.50 per 1,000 gallons.

Apartment complexes will also be charged a fee of $17 for the first 2,000 gallons used. All amounts exceeding 2,000 gallons would be charged an additional $3.50 per 1,000 gallons.

Commercial uses will be charged $34.64 for the first 2,000 gallons used, and a rate of $3.50 per 1,000 gallons for all amounts exceeding the initial 2,000 gallons.

Bryson ISD will be charged $197.42 for the first 2,000 gallons used, and a rate of $3.50 per 1,000 gallons for amounts exceeding the initial 2,000 gallons.