Politics & Government

How Do Cranberry's Sewer Rates Compare to Neighboring Communities?

The township recently increase rates in order to help finance an expansion to the sewage treatment plant.

Cranberry officials in July approved a rate hike in residential water bills to help finance an estimated $18 to $20 million expansion to the Brush Creek Water Pollution Control Facility.

There also will be an increase from $1,784 to $2,184 (an uptick of $400) for new construction to tap into the sewer system. 

With the rate increasing from $5.67 to $7.16 per 1,000 gallons—a boost of $1.49—most residents will see an increase of about $8 per month. On average, water bills currently are about $35 per month.

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So, with the new measure in place by Aug. 23, where do Cranberry’s sewage rates fall in comparison to neighboring communities?

The answer is somewhere in the middle.

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How Cranberry’s Rates Compare

In a chart put together by the township, Cranberry’s sewage rates are in the mid-range compared to other municipalities.

At $3.10 per 1,000 gallons, the cheapest rates can be found in Chippewa Township in Beaver County. The most expensive rates are in Saxonburg at $15.50 per 1,000 gallons.

The sewage rates closest in cost to Cranberry are Moon (at $7 per 1,000 gallons), Oakmont (at $7.29 per 1,000 gallons) and Butler (at $7.50 per gallon).

Why is the Plant Expanding?

In addition to new environmental regulations imposed by the Department of Environmental Protection, which are expected to increase costs of the plant, officials said the expansion is necessary to serve Cranberry’s population as it continues to grow.

By raising the rates, the township will bring in an additional $930,000 annually. The change in tap-in fees will generate an additional $480,000 per year.

As for other means to pay for the expansion, Cranberry noted the sewer system is supported by its customers only.

Tax dollars may not be used to towards the sewer system, and revenues from the plant may not be used to pay for police or other township services.

While Cranberry will continue to seek grant money to help finance the project, state and federal governments have significantly reduced funding to local communities, according to officials.  

Work on the plant is expected to begin in 2015 and be completed by early 2016. 

Preliminary engineering, as well as work to secure state and federal operating permits, is in progress, with final engineering work slated to begin by early next year. 


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