Homeowners in the Bethany Special Utility District (SUD) of Johnson County received a notice on July 20 that water rates will increase on the September 10, 2026 bill. The change, which the board approved at its May meeting, reflects higher operating costs for the small, 1,400‑customer utility.
What the rate hike means for customers
Depending on usage, a single‑meter residential customer could see an increase of anywhere from $0.55 to $4.50 per 1,000 gallons. The monthly minimum service charge will also rise from $43 to $55. For a typical home like Albert Plasket’s, the district estimates the new bill will be about $26 higher each month.
Board’s rationale
Board President David Woodard explained that the district’s costs have risen sharply. “The price of electricity to run pumps, salaries for workers and raw materials like pipes are all up,” Woodard said. He emphasized that the SUD must maintain a positive cash flow to keep water flowing to its customers and that the board looked at the Public Utility Commission’s (PUCT) recommendations, which were substantially higher than current rates.
Woodard also noted that the district relies on volunteer board members, making it challenging to find willing participants, and that better communication with customers is a priority. “We all can do better on public relations. We do need to make sure that the district is better informed,” he said.
Public hearing concerns
Neighbors Albert Plasket and Tim Crossno questioned why they were not notified of a public hearing before the rate increase was approved. “Were there any public hearings? It just brings everything into question,” Plasket asked.
The Public Utility Commission of Texas clarified that, by law, a special utility district’s elected board is responsible for reviewing and adopting rates, and there is no statutory requirement for a public hearing or advance notice of a rate‑setting meeting. The PUCT also stated that the rate study chart provided to the district was created by a third‑party consultant as training material, not a PUCT order or recommendation.
Customer assistance options
The Bethany SUD business manager said customers who cannot afford the new rates should contact the district and provide proof of eligibility for government assistance. The district will work with qualifying households to address affordability concerns.
Community response
Residents expressed frustration over the lack of posted agendas and online notice. The board’s May meeting agenda was only posted on a printed notice outside the district office in Alvarado, and the scheduled August 25 meeting was postponed when the online notice failed to appear.
Woodard acknowledged the oversight and pledged to improve transparency. “We do what we can to keep it running and no more,” he said, underscoring the district’s commitment to reliable service despite financial pressures.
What’s next?
The PUCT can review the rates if at least 10% of impacted customers file an appeal within 90 days, determining whether the increase is “just and reasonable.” In the meantime, the board encourages customers to voice concerns and seek assistance if needed.
Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
