Water rates could increase in West Maui, and residents are encouraged to give their two cents at a public hearing on Monday.
In April of 2025, Hawai‘i Water Service Co. Inc., informed the state Public Utilities Commission that it intends to raise water prices in order to meet increased operating expenses.
HWSC General Manager Geoff Fulks recently told customers in a letter Monday that the company needs to make capital improvements to its water and wastewater systems in the Kapalua service area in order to remain in compliance with Department of Health regulations.
In order to defray those costs, HWSC has requested that the PUC approve a $2.2 million revenue increase, which amounts to a 59% increase from current revenue rates. This increase would be accompanied by expense pass-throughs charging customers additional fees to cover the cost of purchasing power and water.
The increase would be the first since 2009.
According to Fulks’ letter, the new water purchasing charge would amount to an additional $6.18 per 1,000 gallons used, while the power purchasing charge would be $0.19 per 1,000 gallons used.
However, HWSC would also offer a pair of tax credits to customers of about $1.90 per month for water and $2.13 per month for wastewater.
Residents are encouraged to attend a public hearing at 6 p.m. Monday at Maui Preparatory Academy to comment on the rate increase. People can also participate in the meeting remotely and submit comments online.
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