Having read the discussions about water rates in Manzanita, I was curious about how we, as a town, compare to our neighbors. Until 2024, Manzanita hadn’t raised its rates in about nine years, so the recent rise in rates was noticeable. I made the assumption that all residents want a safe and ready water supply on which we can depend. But are we paying a lot? A little? Or amount that is just right?
The data is available, so I compared a sample monthly bill for 4000 gallons in the 4 neighboring systems. In Manzanita, the bill would include the base rate and two additional 1000 gallon charges from Tier 1 pricing. In Nehalem, it is one additional charge above base; in Wheeler it is part of the base rate, and in Neakahnie, it is the base rate plus the mandatory debt charge.
The results of the comparison? You might be surprised! Manzanita, the lowest, is $67 (for a resident), Nehalem is $68 (for a resident), Wheeler is $73, and Neahkahie is $126. Feel free to do your own calculations, and also check out the City Water presentation in July 2024 and Manzanita Today in June 2024.
Judith Sugg, PhD.
Manzanita, OR