Utility Rate Updates Effective January 1, 2026

The City of Solomon would like to inform residents of up utility rate updates approved by City Council on December 1, 2025. These changes will take effect January 1, 2026 and will appear on water bills issued in January and due January 15, 2026.

We understand that any increase in utility rates is difficult and not welcomed. These adjustments reflect the City’s responsibility to address critical water system needs while maintaining reliable service for our community.

Why Utility Rates Are Changing

Solomon’s water system is nearly a century old, with much of the distribution system installed in the 1930s using cast-iron and galvanized pipe that has exceeded its useful life. These aging materials are increasingly prone to leaks, breaks, corrosion, and water loss. Portions of the system also lack modern monitoring, adequate chlorination contact time, and automated alarms.

Delaying these improvements further would increase long-term costs and increase the risk of service disruptions. The rate updates approved by City Council are a necessary step toward responsibly maintaining and improving the City’s water utility system.

Planning for a comprehensive water infrastructure project began in 2018 and has included engineering evaluations, environmental review, and coordination with state agencies. The project is currently under review with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE). Assuming this review is completed in the coming months, construction to repair and replace critical portions of the system is expected to begin in late 2026 or early 2027.

The approved utility rate increases are necessary to prepare the water utility for future loan payments associated with these construction needs and to ensure the City can responsibly finance the required improvements while maintaining reliable service.

Long-Term Planning and Financial Review

The City has completed extensive long-term planning and financial analysis to evaluate how required water system improvements can be funded in the most responsible way possible. These reviews confirmed that current utility revenues are not sufficient to cover normal operating costs and fund major infrastructure upgrades.

To manage this responsibly, the City is pursuing a phased approach to construction, limiting the initial borrowing and spreading costs over time. Utility rate adjustments are one part of a broader funding strategy that also includes continued pursuit of grants and exploration of alternative revenue sources. This approach helps avoid placing the full financial burden on a single year or a single group of ratepayers.

What Is Changing on Your Utility Bill

Previous Monthly Rates

New Monthly Rates (Effective January 1, 2026)

These changes better align costs with actual system usage, help stabilize the water utility fund, and support long-term maintenance and infrastructure investment.

Commitment to Transparency

The City of Solomon understands the impact these changes may have on residents and remains committed to open, clear communication throughout the infrastructure planning process. City officials continue to assess ways to reduce costs, pursue alternative funding opportunities, and responsibly spread expenses over time.

Despite these efforts, the water infrastructure project represents a significant investment in the community and will have financial implications for all water system users. The City is committed to managing this project carefully and sharing updates as planning and construction phases move forward.

Learn More

For residents who would like additional background on Solomon’s long-term water infrastructure planning, the City previously shared a detailed overview of the Water Utility System Infrastructure Project in October 2025.

Water Utility System Infrastructure Project Overview