City Proposes 8% Water Rate Increase to Fund Infrastructure
City staff recommended an 8% increase in water and sewer rates to fund aging infrastructure replacement and meet new state water quality requirements.
At Tuesday's city council workshop, utility department staff presented a rate study recommending an 8% increase in water and sewer rates, effective April 1.
The increase would add approximately $6.50 per month to the average residential customer's bill. Revenue from the increase would fund replacement of aging water lines in the downtown area and upgrades to the wastewater treatment plant to meet new state requirements.
The city's water and sewer rates have not increased since 2023. The rate study compared Farmersville's rates to 12 similar-sized cities in the region and found them to be in the middle of the range.
Council members asked staff to prepare additional information about potential phasing of the increases and alternative funding options. A formal vote is expected at the February council meeting.
Why It Matters
Several neighborhoods have experienced water main breaks in recent months. The proposed rate increase would accelerate replacement of pipes that are more than 50 years old.
What Happens Next
Staff will present additional analysis at the February 3 council meeting. If approved, new rates would appear on bills starting in April.
Sources
- Farmersville City Council Workshop - January 12, 2026
- Water & Sewer Rate Study 2026