This Tuesday, April 22, the Provo City Council will vote on whether to adopt a tiered water rate structure—a change that would adjust what residents pay based on how much water they use. This approach is grounded in years of analysis and expert recommendations and comes at a critical moment for the city’s aging water infrastructure.
Why this matters:
Provo’s water system is aging rapidly. According to data presented by Bowen Collins & Associates (BC&A), the firm hired by the city to evaluate its water system:
- Over 50% of pipes are more than 34 years old
- 16% are nearing or over 100 years old
- 33+ water main breaks occur per year—over 40 in 2023 and 2024
Replacing these pipes is expensive—but delaying the work only means higher costs down the line. BC&A recommends Provo invest $14–18 million per year to keep pace with necessary rehabilitation and upgrades. Currently, the city only invests about $9 million per year.
How tiered rates work:
Right now, everyone pays the same base rate—no matter how much water they use. Tiered pricing means those using more—and straining the system—pay more. It keeps water affordable for low and average-use households and encourages conservation without sacrificing basic needs.
What would this mean for residents?
According to BC&A, under the recommended changes:
- Low users would see a minimal increase—around $2
- A typical 4-person household would see a monthly increase of about $4
- High users might pay $12 to $26 more per month
According to a group of professors and law students at Brigham Young University and the University of Utah, that small monthly bump could promote conservation, prevent costly system failures and improve long-term water reliability for the entire community.
How you can help:
The vote is Tuesday, April 22 at 5:30 PM—we need your voice now to ensure this commonsense reform passes.
- Email the Provo City Council (council@provo.gov). Tell them you support tiered water rates that promote fairness, conservation, and long-term water security.
- Attend the City Council Meeting in Person on Tuesday, April 22nd from 5:30-8:30 at 445 W. Center St., Provo.
Below is an example email template to tell the Provo City Council you support tiered water rates.
Subject line: Please Vote YES on Tiered Water Rates
Dear Provo City Council,
I’m writing to express my strong support for the proposed tiered water rate structure. This change is critical for Provo’s future.
Our aging water system needs immediate investment to prevent costly failures and ensure public safety. Charging the highest rates to those who use the most water is both fair and responsible. Tiered pricing also encourages conservation and ensure long-term water availability for our community.
Thank you for considering this vital update to Provo’s water pricing. Please vote YES on this proposal.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Zip Code]