The West Salem Village Board voted to increase water rates at their July 28, 2025 meeting. The Village has not raised its water or sewer rates in over twelve (12) years, but the cost of supplying water to village households has gone up dramatically during that period. Earlier this year the Village worked with the Rural Community Assistance Partnership (RCAP) to complete a Water and Sewer Rate Study. The study determined that while the Sewer Rates were adequate to cover operational cost, the Water Rates were not enough to cover costs. It cost the Village approximately $35.97 to provide the first 1,000 gallons of water to each meter. The Village is currently charging $17.35. The Waterworks Fund has lost over $48,000 in the past three years. The Village is not financially able to continue to subsidize the cost of water.
Water Rates will increase on August 1, 2025
Resident: Base Service Fee will increase by $5.00 per month for residents, plus an additional $1.00 per 1,000 gallons of water used. Water usage varies widely, but the average customer in West Salem uses about 3,000 gallons of water per month, this means the average household can anticipate a $7.00 per month increase in their Utility Bill. The minimum Utility Bill for a West Salem Resident (which includes Water, Sewer, and Trash) will be $56.04.
Non-Resident: Base Service Fee will increase by $16.00 per month, plus an additional $6.55 per 1,000 gallons of water used. The average non-resident customer can anticipate a $29.10 per month increase in their Water Bill. The minimum water bill for non-residents will be $47.70. The new rate is comparable to the rate charged by EJ Waters to their rural customers.
Customers will see the new rates on the Utility Bills they receive in September. The Village is committed to providing safe, clean water to our residents. If you would like to see the RCAP study, or you have any questions please contact Village Hall at 618/456-3167.
| Base Service Fee | 1,000 Gallons (Minimum) | Minimum Monthly Bill |
| Resident | ||
| $10.50 | $7.35 | $17.85 |
| $15.50 (new rate) | $8.35 (new rate) | $24.85 (new rate) |
| Non-Resident | ||
| $15.00 | $10.15 | $25.15 |
| $31.00 (new rate) | $16.70 (new rate) | $47.70 (new rate) |