The City of Caspian has approved an increase to the monthly residential sewer rate. The residential sewer rate is increasing by $5 per month, bringing the total residential sewer charge to $46 per month.
Why the increase is necessary
WICSA, which operates the treatment plant that serves Caspian, has been mandated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) to add another full-time operator at the plant. This mandate increases Caspian’s share of the plant’s operating costs by approximately $22,800 per year.
In addition, recent plant upgrades increased the City’s monthly cost from $14,909.73 to $16,383.01 — an increase of $1,473.28 per month — beginning with the July bill.
Even with this increase, Caspian’s sewer rate remains below the $57.72 per month threshold required to qualify for USDA grant funding, which the City continues to pursue to help offset the cost of these mandated improvements.
The City recognizes that rate increases are never welcome, and appreciates residents’ understanding as we work to keep our sewer system safe, compliant, and reliable.