Temple Terrace Water Bills Jump 15% for Infrastructure

Temple Terrace residents will pay 15% more for water, wastewater, and irrigation starting Oct. 1. The increase funds a significant overhaul of the city's aging water infrastructure, a project projected to cost tens of millions of dollars over several years.

The city's new budget dedicates nearly $24 million to capital projects, with $18.3 million earmarked for water and sewer improvements. This includes $8 million for water plant rehabilitation, $3.9 million for electrical upgrades, and $5.5 million for a temporary carbon filtration system to remove PFAS and hardness from drinking water.

Finance Director James Ingram said a typical resident paying $91.89 monthly will now see a bill of $105.68. Those paying $100 will pay about $115. Projections from Stantec suggest additional annual rate increases of 9%, 7%, 5%, and 3% in the next four years, subject to annual approval.

The city is also arranging an $11.9 million interim financing package to start immediate work while developing a larger revenue bond. Ingram stated that while the city seeks grants and litigation funds, "the lion's share of the cost has to come from the users," necessitating the rate increases.

The budget also allocates $1.5 million for street resurfacing and $1.54 million for Community Investment Tax-funded projects, including public safety equipment and park improvements.