BRAZOS COUNTY, Texas (KRHD) — More than 10,000 customers in the Wellborn Special Utility District will see their water bills increase by 25% starting this fall as the district invests in long-term water independence.
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"For somebody who uses about 5,000 gallons, you'll see about an $11 increase to your bill starting in November, and then a year from then you'll see an additional $11," General Manager of the Wellborn Special Utility District, Campbell Young said.
The extra funding will support the Wellborn Water Supply Project, designed to make the district more self-sufficient for its water needs.
"Overall, this project gives our community independence, water supply independence, the ability to stand on our own two feet and serve water to our community without having to get it from our neighbors," Young said.
Despite the higher costs, some residents view the investment as necessary for the community's future.
"If they've got ideas to give us a little bit better water or at least make it last through the summer, I think it'd probably be worth it," Wellborn resident Brandon Wauters said.
"I think $11 is worth it if we have better water reserves and are able to water lawns through the summer and not go to restrictions so quickly, $11 is worth it," Wauters added.
Another resident, Jason Encino, echoed similar sentiments about the price increase.
"As long as it doesn't go, you know, from like $10 a gallon to $150 a gallon, then I'd have a problem, but no, I mean, it's part of life. It happens," he said.
Young acknowledges that while no one enjoys higher bills, the investment protects the community's future water security.
"I'm a customer too. I don't wanna have to pay any more on my water bill than I have to. At the same time, water is really important, not just to our community, but just to stay alive," he said.
The rate increase will take effect on October 1 and appear on customers' November bills
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