Broomfield Council Moves to Increase Water Rates
The city council approved a preliminary ordinance that introduces new tiered commercial pricing and future rate hikes.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Utilities
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The Broomfield City Council passed a preliminary vote on an ordinance to adjust water and sewer rates as part of a multi-year financial plan. The proposal includes moving commercial water users to a new four-tier billing system.
Why it matters
These rate adjustments follow a five-year financial plan initiated by the city to manage utility infrastructure and service costs. The plan seeks to balance rising operational requirements through consistent annual fee increases.
Residential water and sewer rates rose 15% in 2026, while stormwater fees saw a 9% increase. Development license fees for water and sewer are set to increase by 4% in 2027.
The players
Broomfield City Council
This is the governing legislative body responsible for the management of municipal utilities and the approval of local tax and fee ordinances.
The details
The council approved a shift from the current flat rate of $3.70 per 1,000 gallons for commercial users to a tiered structure. This change aims to align local utility revenue with the city's long-term budgetary obligations.
Timeline
The city implemented a 50% water rate increase in 2025.
Broomfield raised water and sewer rates by 15% and stormwater rates by 9% in 2026.
The council is scheduled for a final vote on the ordinance on October 27, 2026.
The new water rates are planned to take effect on January 1, 2027.
Annual 7% water rate increases are scheduled to occur from 2027 through 2029.
Market Landscape
Utility rate adjustments in Broomfield follow a five-year financial plan that aligns the city's fiscal strategy with infrastructure demands. This ensures the municipal utility maintains revenue stability amidst regional cost pressures.
Residential customers will face higher monthly utility bills as the city implements scheduled rate hikes through 2029. Commercial businesses must prepare for a transition to a tiered billing system that replaces the previous flat-rate model.
The takeaway
Homeowners and business owners should review their upcoming utility billing statements to account for the annual 7% increases planned through 2029. Staying informed about the final council vote in October will allow residents to better plan their household or corporate budgets.
What happens next
The Broomfield City Council is scheduled to hold a second and final vote on the proposed water rate ordinance on October 27, 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about local infrastructure projects in the Broomfield Utilities section.
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Are rising water and utility costs in your area becoming difficult for your household to afford?
