Why Is My Sewer Bill Higher? An update from Village of Freeville Treasurer Heather Murray

As August sewer billing begins, Freeville village residents may be wondering why their bill is higher than in previous years. This year, the average single-family household will see an increase of approximately $25 per month across the 12-month fiscal year (June 1 through May 30). 

The increase reflects rising residential usage, and because the sewer system is jointly used by both Village residents and the William George Agency, the Village’s metered usage now represents a larger share of the overall costs for operating and maintaining the plant. In addition, this adjustment covers escalating expenses for engineering services, equipment, and resources required to meet upgrades mandated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC).

Constructed in the 1980s, the Village’s wastewater treatment plant is one of the few natural lagoon systems still operating in New York State. As regulations have become more stringent over the past four decades, upgrades are now essential to the aging system. Non-compliance with DEC guidelines could lead to significant fines and penalties that would directly affect system users and jeopardize the financial stability of the municipality. 

As we move forward with this project, our objective is to maintain full compliance with regulatory requirements while actively working to minimize financial impacts on the community. 

Public Engagement & Official Notices

Each spring, the Village Board of Trustees develops and adopts the sewer operations and maintenance budget. Notices for budget sessions are shared in the Ithaca Journal, posted on the Village website, and emailed to our community listserv. The board also hosts a Sewer Grievance Day every June, offering residents a dedicated opportunity to ask questions or raise concerns about their sewer bills. 

In addition to traditional budget notices, an income survey was distributed to all sewer customers in 2024 which discussed improvements to municipal infrastructure. This spring, a bond notice regarding the plant upgrades was also published and displayed at multiple public locations, including the post office, the Main Street bulletin board, Station Park bus stop, Mill Dam Park, and Groton Avenue Park. 

Residents are encouraged to check the village website for the most current information regarding budgets, resolutions, public hearings, and board meetings. If you would like any further information, please feel free to reach out directly to the Village Clerk’s Office.