By FOX23.com News Staff
GLENPOOL, Okla. — People living in Glenpool will soon see higher utility bills after city leaders approved a utility rate increase set to take effect July 1.
Officials said it marks the first increase to water, sewer, and stormwater rates since 2015.
According to city leaders, the increase comes as operating costs for the city’s utility system have climbed by more than 50% over the past decade.
Officials said expenses tied to maintenance, system upgrades, staffing, and the cost of purchasing water have continued to rise while rates remained unchanged.
The city is also facing debt obligations connected to a new wastewater treatment facility. Glenpool secured $44 million in federal American Rescue Plan funding toward the project, but additional costs are being covered through a loan that must be repaid over time.
Officials said the rate increase is intended to help keep the utility system financially stable. City leaders said without changes, the utility system could face budget shortfalls within the next few years.
They also said Glenpool’s rates are still expected to remain among the lowest in the Tulsa metro area, even after the increase.
For more information about the utility changes, frequently asked questions, and rebate program information, click here.
