The Mat-Su Borough Assembly approved rate updates and rules changes to Talkeetna’s Sewer and Water operations this week.
The main change users will see is a shift from a flat monthly cost to a tiered usage cost. Under this new rate system, most users will see reduced rates. Residential users will pay only the base rate of $60 for up to 3,000 gallons per month. Residents using 3,001 to 7,500 gallons are in the first tier and will not see any added costs per gallon. However, those households using more than 7,500 gallons will pay one-half cent per gallon above the base rate. Commercial users will be charged a $100 sewer and $90 base rate for up to 3,000 gallons per month. Costs increase as usage increases.
Another major change is the requirement for commercial establishments to add grease traps to reduce fats, oils, and grease, or FOG. The FOG can cause major problems in the system. During this year’s fall cleanout, Borough Utilities and Facilities Operational Supervisor Amanda Fleming says they saw a lot of FOG in the pipes, particularly along Main Street.
Other rate and rules changes were adopted as part of the package, including new disconnect and seasonal shut-off costs and seasonal rates for service requests.
The changes take effect on July 1, 2025.
