Tequesta Water Rate Increase Approved for October 2026

Tequesta residents will see an increase in their water bills starting October 1, 2026, following approval by the Village Council in July. The village's utility department, which provides water service across its 4-square-mile area, funds all operations and capital improvements through user charges, not property taxes.

Rising costs for chemicals, meters, hydrants, and other essential resources, attributed to global economic conditions, have significantly increased the department's operating and capital expenses over the past two years. Capital projects alone have seen cost escalations of up to 60 percent.

To address aging infrastructure and fund capital improvement projects, the village will introduce a new Capital Recovery Charge of $10 per month for the average resident. This charge will support projects on the capital improvement plan and will remain in effect only while these programs are active. The village's financial model projects 20-year capital needs.

Village officials emphasized that a financially healthy utility is crucial for public health and safety, including fire protection and ensuring safe drinking water. They acknowledged the necessity of these rate adjustments and committed to pursuing federal and state grants, county assistance, operational efficiencies, and improved financial practices to potentially reduce or eliminate the Capital Recovery Charge.

The capital improvement plan undergoes an annual review and reprioritization. The financial forecast and capital funding plan will be reviewed every two to four years, or whenever significant changes occur. Residents can contact the Village of Tequesta Utilities Department at (561) 768-0700 for additional information.