Baltimore DPW takes public feedback over proposed water rate increases

BALTIMORE -- The Baltimore Department of Public Works (DPW) has asked for feedback in a series of public meetings to discuss proposed water rate increases.

If the proposal is approved, Baltimore City households will see a 9.66% rise in their monthly water bill beginning February 1. An 8.4% increase would take effect in FY26, and another 8.4% increase would be implemented in FY27, per the proposal.

DPW claims the rate increase is necessary for updating infrastructure and projects to keep the water running, which means a family of four could expect to pay about $12 more per bill. 

"They need to look out more for the residents, you know, since we're in a time of people struggling looking for jobs," said Darryl Mason.

The first of five community meetings was held Tuesday at the Northwest Police District where DPW representatives provided an overview of the proposed rate increases and the infrastructural upgrades they will support. 

The increases are aimed at helping the city maintain financial stability as its water and wastewater system ages, DPW officials said.

"Our infrastructure has been neglected for a long long period of time and we have to take care of that infrastructure," said DPW Director Khalil Zaied.  

Zaied told residents that the rate increase is a move that needs to be done.

"The past three years, we have 3% increases while everybody around the country has doubled the increases," Zaied said. "It's good while it lasted but at this point, we have to start to buckle up again and do what we have to do to stabilize the utility we have right now and build on it." 

Residents argue that $12 more per month adds up.

"I say that's a little steep," Mason said. "Today's jobs aren't paying a whole lot, people are struggling." 

The remaining meetings will take place during the following dates and times:

• Date: January 11 (Virtual)
• Location: Northeast Community Organizations 
• Time: 10:00 AM 
• Zoom Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81916187665

• Date: January 15  (In Person)
• Location: War Memorial 101 N Gay St., Baltimore, Md. 21202 Lower Level
• Time: 6:00 PM

• Date: January 21 (In Person) 
• Location: Southeast Anchor Library, 3601 Eastern Avenue, Baltimore, Md. 21224
• Time: 6:00 PM

• Date: January 28 (In Person and Virtual)
• Location: Southwest  424 Font Hill Avenue, Baltimore, Md. 21223 
• Time: 7:00 PM
• Zoom Link: https://zoom.us/j/95231599000

Residents are encouraged to attend the meetings and bring questions about the proposed changes.

Those who can not attend in person can share comments through an online form.