The Water Pollution Control Authority approved a rate increase in December from $9.93 to $10.52 per 1,000 gallons, according to the WPCA minutes on the town website.
The rate combines the WPCA fee of $4.24 with the Town of Vernon municipal sewer cost, since Tolland waste is processed through the neighboring town's system.
Chairperson Jim Williams said that the volunteer-run utility hasn't raised rates for before during his time on the commission in the last three years.
"We worked especially hard to not have a rate increase," he said. "We understand the economic impact it has on families."
The increase will build up the utility's reserve account, Williams said. Due to a misunderstanding, the WPCA thought money for operating and infrastructure costs was available in the account, until the town's new financial director Lisa Hancock informed them that the fund was tied up in financing a recent pipeline extension up Route 195.
"In my estimation, we're going to be in a pretty stable spot now," Williams added.
The Route 195 pipeline from Rhodes Road to Anthony Road was finished up about a year ago, according to Williams. Only a few customers have hooked into the line, but Williams said he is optimistic that more customers will be added as the area develops economically.
The WPCA has 86 customers and is also responsible for protecting Tolland's water supply. For more information on recent WPCA funding issues, check out Tolland Patch's coverage of the utility's recent conversation with the town council.
