In order to keep our utilities operating efficiently and in a financially
sound manner, a rate increase of approximately 15% for both Wastewater
and Solid Waste is proposed for FY04. There is no rate change for Water.
These changes would bring the monthly utility bill for an average City
of Tampa residential customer to $67.70. With this change our utility
rates continue to remain lower than many jurisdictions. Concurrent with
this proposal is an increase in the senior citizen discount for solid
waste from $2.25 to $2.50 per month. Information on the senior citizen
discount can be obtained by calling 348-1186 or 274-8974.
The City of Tampa has experienced long standing flooding and erosion
problems caused by stormwater runoff. To solve the problem, City Council
has enacted an ordinance to create a stormwater utility. Fees that are
collected by this utility will go into a separate fund that may be used
only for stormwater services. The revenues from these fees will be used
for environmental protection, stormwater planning for future capital
projects and operations and maintenance purposes throughout the city.
Examples include filters for stormwater outfalls that go into the bay
and the Hillsborough River and other projects that are of general city-wide
benefit such as street sweeping and cleaning as well as correcting erosion
problems in ditches and culverts.
