Ford City authority increases sewer rates

FORD CITY -- Even though Ford City sewer rates are going up for the first time in 10 years, the cost to 1,581 retail customers is still the lowest among local communities.

The average residential account using 5,000 gallons of water in Ford City will see the monthly bill increase from $13.14 to $17.50, a 33 percent increase.

The Ford City Borough Municipal Sewage Disposal Authority adopted the new rate schedule at its public meeting Feb. 20 to be effective immediately.

The results of a survey of communities shows Ford City's quarterly sewer charge is now $52.50. Dayton in Armstrong County has the highest rate in a four county area at $153; Dubois in Clearfield County is $131.48; New Bethlehem in Clarion County is $84.30; and Brookville in Jefferson County is $73.16, according to figures provided by Ford City sewage authority officials. Locally, the survey indicates that Manor Township is $123; Kittanning is $90; and West Hills is $54.

The board of the Authority based its decision on a detailed evaluation of its rate structure by Nichols and Slagle Engineering. Authority officials said the increase is necessary to make loan payments for the $440,000 capital replacement of the 40-year-old methane/natural gas piping, control valves and processing equipment at the Ford City wastewater treatment plant along the Allegheny River.

"The local financing provided by the Merchants Bank of Kittanning at very favorable terms provided the foundation for us to keep our rates affordable," said Scott Davis, authority president.