How Fees are Used

There are a number of different fees collected by the WSWSC that are used for specifi purposes. Here’s a handy guide to those fees and what is done with the money:

•  Base Rate – This is the base charge on your monthly water bill. The money from this fee is used for operation of the water system and infrastructure maintenance and repair.
• Gallonage Charge – This is the amount you are charged based on how much water you actually use. The money from this fee is used for operation of the water system and infrastructure maintenance and repair.
• Regulatory assessment fee – This is an additional 0.5% added to your bill each month. This goes to state regulatory agencies.
• Membership fee – This is a fee that is your buy-in to the water company. It is held in an account. It is refunded to you if you ever sell your property.
• Meter Installation Fee – This is the actual charge PGMS charges the WSWSC to come out and install a meter on the water line. There is a base amount, but it can vary based on conditions on your lot and what the developer did when installing your supply line from the main system.
• Connection Fee – This is a one-time fee charged to add your connection to the system. It is used to develop new infrastructure such as wells, pumps, buildings, tanks, etc. It is also used to acquire land needed for infrastructure.
• Transfer Fee – This is the charge for re-registering your account under a new  owner.
• There are a number of other miscellaneous charges that relate to specific circumstances. You can find the current rate sheet with all charges here.