I recently purchased a home in Salt Lake City. I just got my first bill from Salt Lake City Public Utilities. The rate I was charged on the sewer portion of the bill was $46.50/unit. I used one unit. In my previous home in Salt Lake City, I was charged $8.50/unit for the sewer.
When I asked about this large discrepancy I was told it was because I had no history of water usage at the new property (even though the home is 101 years old) and I would be charged the $46.50 “base rate” until I had a history.
Establishing a history requires going through one full winter. If, for example, I use about the same amount of water in this smaller home than I did in my previous home, which seems likely, my rate next year will be $38/unit less than I will pay this year. That means I will be paying $456 (38x12) more this next year than I will pay in the following years for the exact same usage.
When I asked if this overcharge will be refunded to me after I establish a usage history, I was told no.
To charge so much more in the first year than in subsequent years for the exact same usage seems like theft.
Lawrence Dunn, Salt Lake City
Donate to the newsroom now. The Salt Lake Tribune, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) public charity and contributions are tax deductible