Hampton is considering a wastewater fee increase that would see the average customer’s bill increase by almost $11 a month.
Public Works Director Jason Mitchell recommended the City Council increase the fee to accommodate mandated infrastructure improvements, including pipe repairs, as part of the next city budget. The majority of Hampton’s wastewater system is over 65 years old, according to Mitchell. By 2040, 33% of the city’s wastewater system will be 100.
The wastewater system’s age means many of the city’s pipes need repairs because of cracks and other damage. City spokesperson Robin McCormick said based on 2022 cost estimates, Hampton will need to spend $106 million in capital projects by 2030 and another $124 million by 2040.
Discussion about the possible wastewater fee increase came last week as the City Council held a lengthy work session at the Hampton Roads Convention Center to discuss the budget and gauge this year’s priorities.
Currently, the wastewater fee is $1.92 per 100 cubic feet and the surcharge fee is $0.94 per $100 cubic feet. Because home usage in the city averages about 668 cubic feet or 5,000 gallons, Hampton estimates the average combined monthly wastewater bill is roughly $19.