Investing in Reliability. Protecting Water Quality. PWD Proposes Water Rate Adjustment and holds Public Hearing.

The Portland Water District (PWD) is committed to delivering safe, clean, and reliable water every day. The proposed 2026 water rate adjustment supports long-term investments to ensure reliable service, safeguard water quality, and modernize our infrastructure. We also prioritize managing expenses and operating efficiently, without compromising the quality or reliability of your water.

PWD is proposing a water rate adjustment effective January 1, 2026. The proposed increase does not affect wastewater fees, which are set by city and town governments. PWD bills wastewater fees on behalf of the city and towns.

The impact on a typical residential customer will be $1.92 per month.

Public Hearing

In Person and Zoom

November 10, 2025 | 6:30 p.m.

Nixon Development Center
225 Douglass Street, Portland.

More Information

Customers have an opportunity to learn more and ask questions. Materials supporting the rate increase are available online and can be mailed upon request.

MORE INFORMATION

Investing Today to Protect Tomorrow

Proposed Water Rate Increase: Where the Money Goes

The draft 2026 budget calls for a proposed 7.4% water rate increase to fully fund expenses—consistent with last year’s forecasts. About 72% of the increase supports critical capital investments, including water main replacements, treatment facility upgrades, and the system-wide meter replacement project. The balance reflects higher operational costs, like insurance and electricity.

Building Reliability Through Smart Investments

Project Highlight: Ozone Treatment Upgrade

Ozone treatment has been a vital part of providing safe drinking water since the treatment facility opened in 1994. After more than 30 years of service, some original equipment is nearing the end of its service life, and replacement parts and skilled technicians are increasingly difficult to find. For a service as essential as drinking water, redundancy is critical to ensuring uninterrupted operations. Proactive investment in new ozone equipment enhances reliability, safeguards public health, and strengthens the resiliency of water service. The proposed 2026 budget includes funding for new ozone treatment equipment.

Ozone Generator

Ozone Generator Control Module replaced in 2025

We Care: Committed to Affordability

Low Income Rate Program

PWD remains committed to keeping water affordable for those who need it most. Through our Lifeline Water Rate program, qualifying customers can receive bill assistance to help make water costs more manageable. Customers can apply through the Opportunity Alliance.