WASA: Utility rates not pegged to Property Tax

  • Sep, Wed, 2024

The Water and Sewerage Authority is asserting that any increases in water and sewerage rates is in no way connected to property taxes.  

The State agency issued a statement today on the matter, to correct statements made by former government minister, Mariano Browne.

“The Water and Sewerage Authority takes note of certain statements made by former Minister Mr. Mariano Browne on TV6 Morning Edition Program on Tuesday 10th September 2024. Mr. Browne is quoted as saying ‘…utility rates which are pegged to property prices and rates…so I think that utility rates, certainly in the case of WASA, rates are going to go up whether we like it or not…’,” WASA said.

In its release, WASA underscored the role of the Regulated Industries Commission (RIC) in adjusting utility rates.

“The issue of rate increases is a matter for determination in the manner prescribed under the Regulated Industries Commission Act Chap. 54:73,” WASA explained. 

“The Regulated Industries Commission (RIC) has the mandate under its Act to, inter alia, establish the principles and methodologies by which service providers determine rates for services, with which the Water and Sewerage Authority is obligated to comply,” WASA said.

It added: “Any link made to an increase in water and sewerage rates being pegged to the current adjustments to property tax has no basis as the Authority cannot operate to impose increased rates and charges outside of the process under the RIC Act.”

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