As we prepare the utility bills for next month, we know you may have this question enter your mind once you receive yours: Why is my 'water' bill higher?!
Here's some background: Back in 2017, after a study by the Rural Community Assistance Partnership (RCAP) in 2016, the Village Council passed an ordinance to establish a new rate structure. This was necessary to address the rising costs and upcoming changes to the Water Plant and the Water Resource Recovery Facility (WRRF), as well as to comply with the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency's mandate to separate the sanitary sewer from the storm sewer.
In 2023, another rate study by RCAP led to a focus on the WRRF’s rate structure, especially with projects like the Headworks project that is now nearing completion and future upgrades in the works. Much of the plant’s equipment is original from 1955, so updating and maintaining these systems is vital for operational efficiency and environmental compliance.
At the end of 2024, the Village Council voted, in three readings (not as an emergency), to approve a rate increase for the sewer portion, while keeping the water rate structure the same as the one established in 2017. This decision passed without any objections.
We understand rate increases can be tough, but these adjustments are necessary to ensure our water and sewer systems are up-to-date, sustainable, and ready for the future. It’s all about long-term health and growth for our community! #communitygrowth #InfrastructureMatters

The Swanton wastewater treatment plant was constructed in 1955. Plant improvements were made to the original plant in 1975, 2000, and 2009. Many of the original equipment and processes are still being used today.
The Ohio EPA required the village to submit a long-term control plan to show planned plant improvements. This plan was implemented in 2009 to help improve plant efficiencies and reduce the combined sewer overflows. The first planned project started in 2009 that included screening, replacing plug valves in raw sewage pump station with motor operated ball valves, modifying primary diversion structures, new oxidation ditch, new final settling tank, new sludge pumping station, and new sampling manhole. Due to cost certain aspects had to be removed to make the project more budget friendly. One major cut was the removal of the headworks building that included new influent pumps, screening and grit removal.
In 2023 the village received a wastewater infrastructure grant for a little over 3 million dollars. This grant would provide nearly half of the funding to complete the Headworks project. In March of 2024 work started at the wastewater plant with a planned spring of 2025 completion. The scope of work included, new headworks building, screening, grit removal, new raw and storm pumps, larger non potable water pumps, and SCADA (computer controls).
The improvements will remove debris from the influent flow to the plant, which will improve plant operations. This will also help the longevity of plant pumps and equipment. The SCADA controls will give plant staff the ability to control and monitor the plant in a more efficient manner. The addition of new raw and storm pumps will help with higher plant flows which will help reduce combined sewer overflows.
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