We use a complex but transparent, method to determine the rates for the Grand Rapids Water System. Changes to the rates are effective the 1st of each year, after a study, review and approval process. Users, customer communities and the City Commission are all involved in this process.
The main reason for the study is to set rates to meet revenue needs. We calculate our revenue needs using historical costs. We then adjust these to account for known increases and decreases in costs.
The final 2017 Grand Rapids Water System Rate Study will be available in the first week of January, 2018. In the meantime, you can take a look at the preliminary study. Keep in mind there will be some changes in the final study.