Colby applies for 3% increase in water rates

The Colby City Council approved an application for a simplified rate case for the city’s water utilities that will allow for a 3 percent rate increase, pending the approval of the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin.

If approved, the new rates will become effective on Nov. 15, 2025.

According to the application to be submitted by the city, the average residential property, which is estimated to use about 4,000 gallons per month, would see an increase from $37.31 per month to $38.43.

Commercial buildings, estimated at an average of 19,300 gallons per month, would see their utility bills increase from an average of $136.65 to $140.79 per month.

Rate increases via the simplified rate case application are largely based on Consumer Price Index changes since the last application. Increases conducted via the simplified rate case application use changes in the CPI over the past year.

Last year, the city of Colby increased its water rates by 4.1 percent using the same simplified rate case application process, which has been used to increase rates over the last four years.

Simplified rate cases give municipalities the ability to increase water rates without having to engage in a full rate case, which is a far more involved process. Colby last had a full rate case adjustment back in 2009.