A Proposal for Fairer Utility Rates in Largo
This plan outlines how to modernize Largo's utility rates to fund critical infrastructure and create a more equitable system that aligns costs with usage and impact for all residents and businesses.
The Challenge: Funding Essential Services
To maintain and upgrade our aging water infrastructure and meet regulatory requirements, significant investment is needed. This plan addresses how to fund these legally mandated projects and ensure the reliability of our services for years to come.
From a Flat Fee to a Fair Tier
Stormwater: Paying Your Fair Share
Previously, every home paid the same flat fee. Based on an analysis of city data, we are moving to a five-tier system that more accurately reflects a property's impervious area (rooftops, driveways). Over 82% of homes will now be in the two lowest-cost tiers.
The Old Way: A Flat Fee
The New Way: A 5-Tier System
Wastewater: Rewarding Conservation
The old wastewater rate charged the same price for every gallon. The new structure uses "inclining blocks" – the price per gallon increases for higher usage, rewarding customers who conserve water.
The Old Way: A Uniform Rate
The New Way: An Inclining Rate
How the Math Works: A Revenue Neutral Shift
This reform is about fairness, not about collecting more money than necessary. The tiered system is designed to generate the same total revenue as a simple 15% flat-rate increase would have. The key difference is how that total is collected: smaller properties pay less, and larger properties pay their proportional share.
Total Revenue is Unchanged
The total stormwater revenue collected remains the same under both systems to meet the City's budget needs.
What Does This Mean for Your Bill?
Select a profile, or use the sliders to match your property. The chart shows how each part of your bill changes.
Estimated Monthly Change
How Do We Compare?
Even with the proposed adjustments, Largo's estimated combined utility bill for an average resident remains competitive with other cities in the region.
The Path Forward
Phase 1: Policy
Adopting revised ordinances after public hearings.
Phase 2: Technical
Measuring properties and updating the billing system.
Phase 3: Outreach
Public education and clear communication to all residents.