Board Byline: New Rate Structure Starting July 1

Balancing affordable rates with essential upgrades.

Each year, we develop the budget and review our rate structure for the upcoming fiscal year, which begins in July. This process involves carefully balancing the need to fund essential infrastructure upgrades and operational costs while keeping rates as reasonable as possible for our customers.

We’re committed to transparency, and these budget discussions are always open to the public. We’re grateful to the community members who have attended our meetings this spring—and there’s still time to join the conversation. We invite you to participate* in our public hearings on May 13 and June 10, starting at 4 P.M. You can find more information about how to participate on our site.

*Registration is required for public comment. Visit our site or call for more information.

Sewer Line Upgrade Underway Near Boardman Ave. & the Trolley Trail

What: We’re re-routing a sewer pipe currently running beneath Boardman Creek.

When: Late April through early June.

Where: A stretch of the Trolley Trail near Boardman Ave. & Arista Dr., where the existing pipe is prone to “bellies” — low spots where wastewater collects due to corrosion over time.

Why: Replacing and re-routing the pipe will reduce costly maintenance and future issues. It also allows us to protect the natural area by avoiding work directly under the creek.

Impacts: The Trolley Trail will stay open, but please watch for equipment and workers.

Cost: Approximately $289,000.

Updates are available at the project page.

Native Plants Can Save You Water (and $) This Summer

Revamping your landscaping this summer? Consider adding some native plants! Because they’ve evolved to thrive in our area’s conditions, they need less water than non-native varieties.

As an OLWS customer, you have access to free resources to get you started, like this extensive native plant guide.

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