Tampa Bay Water Pass-Through Charge

New Surcharge Goes Into Effect With August Bills

Tampa City Council approved a new surcharge on July 19, 2007, that will apply to all City of Tampa water customers.  The new surcharge was established in order for the city to recover the cost of water purchases from Tampa Bay Water.  It appears as a separate line item beginning with the August utility bills. We hope the following information helps you better understand this new charge.

1.      Who is Tampa Bay Water?

Tampa Bay Water is a regional water utility that sells water to local water providers. The City of Tampa purchases water from Tampa Bay Water during times when demand is high and our own resources can no longer meet this demand.

2.      Why does the City of Tampa need a surcharge for these purchases?

This surcharge was put into place to recover the difference between what we pay Tampa Bay Water and what it normally costs us to produce water at our own facilities.

3.      Will there be a surcharge every month?

A surcharge will only be passed on during times when the City of Tampa has had to buy water from Tampa Bay Water.

4.      How is the amount of the surcharge determined for each customer?

First, the total cost for all of the purchases during the previous 3 month  period will be determined in order to arrive at a per unit cost. The amount each customer will pay will be calculated by multiplying their individual usage times that per unit cost.

5.      Is the surcharge subject to tax?

Yes, the surcharge line item is subject to tax.

6.      Is the surcharge the same as a rate increase?

No, this is not a rate increase. This is a surcharge to recover actual water purchases only when needed.

7.      Who can I contact for more information about the surcharge?

You may contact our representatives in the billing division at (813) 274-8811.