CONTACT: Erin Nichols, 210-207-2881
Erin.nichols2@sanantonio.gov
SAN ANTONIO (November 10, 2022) — Today, San Antonio City Council unanimously voted to approve the San Antonio Water System’s (SAWS) new rate structure, which will lower water bills for 83% of residential customers, as well as reducing wastewater charges for 100% of residential customers. The average residential customer’s bill will decrease 8.7%. Additionally, the new structure reduces or keeps bills the same for 100% of those enrolled in the SAWS Affordability Discount Program. Following the vote, the District 8 Councilman released the following statement:
“Rarely, if ever, do utilities come to their customers and say they have good news, but in this instance I’m incredibly delighted and impressed that SAWS and those on the Rate Advisory Committee were able to make the math work. With the rising costs of basic goods and services, many of our residents are struggling to pay their utility bills. This new SAWS rate structure brings financial relief not only to those in need—but to all residential ratepayers.
Despite the increased rates for commercial customers under the new rate structure, I am thrilled to see the strong support these recommendations received from San Antonio business representatives including the San Antonio Chamber of Commerce, the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber, and the San Antonio Manufacturers Association.
Hundreds of hours of work went into this to ensure that SAWS continues to deliver the product we expect, while also taking care of those who are hurting. Thank you to the SAWS Rate Advisory Committee for their hard work in bringing this win to our neighbors, as well as SAWS President and CEO Robert Puente and his team for their continued efforts to lower costs.”