New Ulm Plans Water and Wastewater Rate Increases for Infrastructure Improvements
New Ulm Public Utilities aims to raise water and wastewater rates to fund $2 million in annual capital asset replacements. Average residential bills will increase by $10 in October 2026, with a total rise of $53 over 3.5 years to address aging infrastructure.
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New Ulm Public Utilities is proposing significant water and wastewater rate increases to fund essential infrastructure repairs. A rate study by Dave Berg Consulting recommends raising an additional $2 million per year for the next five years, with the average residential customer facing a $10 increase starting October 2026.
Future increases are projected to be $12 in July 2027, $14 in 2028, and $17 in 2029, totaling a $53 increase over 3.5 years. New Ulm's wastewater treatment plant, over 50 years old, will require substantial updates costing millions.
The municipality has not increased rates since 2013, leading to deferred maintenance that can no longer be postponed. Delays in implementing rate increases could lead to higher costs in the future due to inflation. New Ulm's rates are comparatively moderate within the region, but adjustments are necessary to maintain service quality.
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