Coconut Creek Commission Approves Water Rate Increases

by David Volz April 27, 2025

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Coconut Creek residents could see a nine percent increase in their water and wastewater rates.

During the April 24 meeting, the commission approved on the second and final reading an ordinance to allow for annual rate adjustments effective June 1 of each year based on the higher of two and one-half percent, the consumer price index (CPI), or Broward County water and wastewater services fee adjustments. The ordinance would also allow the city commission to waive the fees. The city conducted a social media campaign to explain to residents why they would see rate increases.

Commissioner Joshua Rydell said he supports the increase and expects more increases in the coming years. He said it is important that residents are informed and educated about the need for these rate increases.

Vice Mayor Jeffrey Wasserman said the county will eventually raise its rates even more and it is important to spread the rate increases. According to Wasserman, the county is spending more money to improve the water system, which will mean higher rates.

While nine percent is a large number, residents can expect even more increases in the coming years. The county’s nine percent increase took effect this past October. According to Yvonne Lopez, spokesperson for Coconut Creek, the proposed adjustment will help the city maintain reliable service, meet future regulatory requirements, and avoid larger rate increases down the road.

The city does not maintain its own water and wastewater plant but contracts with Broward County Water and Wastewater Services to purchase water and transmit and treat wastewater, according to city information. This accounts for a significant portion of the city’s water and wastewater operating budget.

The county’s annual fee adjustments are based on projected costs to operate the water and wastewater systems, which may vary significantly from year to year due to regulatory changes and capital needs. According to city information, these may exceed two and a half percent and the CPI.

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David Volz

David Volz has worked as a writer in South Florida for 35 years. He has written for the Sun-Sentinel, Hollywood Gazette, School Transportation News, South Dade News Leaders, Observer among others. He has an MA in Communications from Florida Atlantic University and a BA in Communications from Valparaiso University. Volz teaches Communications at Miami Dade College and Palm Beach State College. He lives in Coral Springs and enjoys running and participating in 5Ks and half-marathons.