Billing and Finances
Direct Debit Payment Option
In 2005 the District implemented "Direct Debit" as an alternative way to pay water and/or sewer service charges, in addition to the current choices of cash and check.
This option draws the "TOTAL AMOUNT DUE" on the specified "PAST DUE DATE" indicated on the current billing statement. The bill amount ($) is drawn from the verified account which has been set up by the account holder specified on the authorization form. To sign up, download the Direct Debit Payment Option Form, print the form and fill in the required information. Return the signed original to the district’s administration office. If you have questions please call Kathy at (509) 922-5443 ext. 225.
Direct Debit Monthly Payment Option
**NEW**
WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE BILLED ON A MONTHLY BASIS FOR YOUR REGULAR CHARGES?
It’s GREEN (saves paper), it is easy to budget, and safe. The regular charge amount for each month (based on the number of days in the month) is posted at the beginning of the month. Your payment for those charges will be debited from your account on the last day of the month (or the next business day after if it falls on a weekend). Your regular monthly charges can be determined beforehand so you will know each month how much will be need to be paid. This monthly billing is only available to those who make their payment method “Direct-Debit”. You will continue to receive a quarterly billing showing your usage and any overages that may have occurred. Payment for those charges can also be done by “Direct-Debit” on a quarterly basis. Download the Direct Debit Payment Option Form, print the form and fill in the required information. Return the signed original to the district’s administration office clerk by the 15th of May to start by June 2010. The next start will be September 2010.
For questions call Kathy at 922-5443 x225.
How To Read Your Bill
The District bills in 4 quarterly cycles per year. Each cycle is billed in advance for current charges plus past due balances. Past due bills are charged 10% late charge on previous balance. Monthly sewer rate is $27.00 plus tax. Water is $10.08 plus tax for 240 gallons per day. Water usage in excess of 240 gallons per day is charged at a higher rate. Most residential homes exceed the 240 gallons per day during the summer irrigation season.
Below is the explanation of each District billing form:
PREVIOUS READ = Actual meter read from previous billing (gallons or cubic feet).
PRESENT READ = Most recent meter reading (gallons or cubic feet).
PRESENT CONSUMPTION THIS PERIOD = Amount of water consumed during billing cycle in cubic feet of water. This is the difference between Present Read and Previous Read, measured in cubic feet of water. Please note that all meters are not measured in cubic feet. Some residential meters measure in gallons. Billing software converts gallons to cubic feet (7.48 gallons per cubic ft).
SERVICE FROM = Beginning date of present billing cycle.
SERVICE TO = Last day of present billing cycle.
BILL DATE = Date Bill prepared and sent to customer.
TOTAL AMOUNT DUE = Amount due for this billing cycle plus past due balance.
Meter Reading
The District reads the residential meters four (4) times per year. Customers are required to keep the meter vault clear of obstructions such as shrubbery, debris, machinery, vehicles, etc. Residences with meters in back yards must provide access for meter reading. The District on occasion will trim shrubs to access the meter. If the meter reader experiences a problem, a door hanger will be left describing the problem. You have the option of reading the meter yourself or making an appointment for the meter to be read. Failure to respond will result in your meter reading to be estimated. If you choose to read your own meter, please call Kathy Millick at 922-5443 ext. 225 with the meter read. For additional information contact John Yake at 922-5443 extension 227.
Usage Charges
When a water customer uses more than 240 gallons per day, an overage charge will be added to the bill and is listed separately. Overage charges for residential customers usually appear in the fall billing cycle reflecting summer irrigation. Occasionally the meter is read incorrectly. If you think the water consumption is in error, or you have a question regarding the bill, please contact Kathy Millick or Glenys Leestma. The District reviews unusually high water use after the summer meter reads and will contact homeowners regarding potential leaks.
Annual Budgets
This District prepares an operating budget each year. Annual budgets are available for public viewing upon request at the District office. The previous year's financial statements have been audited by the Washington State Auditor and are available for public viewing at the District office. For more information, call Kathy Millick at 922-5443 ext. 225.