Tallahassee Mayor Signs Utility Rate Ordinance Raising Monthly Bills

The Tallahassee city commission approved the mayor's utility rate ordinance on July 7. The measure changes how fixed and variable charges are applied to residential water and sewer accounts beginning October 1.

Utility bills form a recurring expense for most households in the city. The ordinance responds to increased operating costs reported in the fiscal year 2026 budget document, which listed $48 million in projected maintenance needs for the water system.

Rate Structure Changes

Under the new structure, the fixed monthly service charge rises by $3.50 for single-family homes. The volume-based rate per 1,000 gallons stays at the current level for the first 5,000 gallons used. Residents who exceed that threshold will pay an additional tier rate of $4.25 per 1,000 gallons.

Local advocates note that the average Tallahassee household uses about 6,800 gallons monthly. Policy analysts say the tiered component will produce an estimated $2 increase in the typical bill when combined with the higher fixed charge.

Next Steps for Households

The city utility will mail revised rate schedules to all residential accounts by August 15. Customers can request a payment plan through the existing assistance program if the new amounts exceed their budgeted amount. The legislation states that the city will review usage data after six months and report findings to the commission.

City staff will hold two public meetings in August at the City Hall auditorium to explain the calculation method and answer questions about individual accounts. The ordinance requires the utility to publish an annual report on revenue collected and system improvements completed.