The existing methodology by which Independence’s rates for service are calculated uses a linear projection based on sewer flow data for the last 5 years. Concern has been raised by several members of the District that this projected flow is too volatile due to wet weather and that the projected value is unpredictable and potentially inaccurate. A rate consultant evaluated the methodology and recommended a modification. The suggested new methodology would be based on a 5-year rolling average rather than the linear 5-year projection.
This recommendation was presented to and supported by LBVSD’s Mayor’s Advisory Board, Technical Advisory Committee, and Board of Trustees. It was then considered and recommended by the PUAB on September 22, 2020.
This change in methodology does not change the rates paid to the District. It alters the way fees are applied from a 5-year linear projection to a rolling 5-year average. The goal of this change is that sewer fees paid to the District are more consistent and stable as they would be based off of actual averages rather than a projection.