Birmingham Water Works: Staggering Losses & Rate Hikes

0:00from the streets of Birmingham to the world. This is Birmingham News Today. Central Alabama Water just released a report on the Birmingham Waterworks Boards, finances and operations from 2001 to 2024. It highlights big problems like a 129% rise in treated water losses, with over 53% of water not billed to. Customers last year due to leaks and billing issues. Residential rates also jumped 354% in that time, way more than the 79% rise in inflation. This report comes right before a major governance change from Act Number 2025-2007, signed by Governor. Ivy. Officials say it's all about transparency for customers and investors, showing why the state stepped in after over 20 years of tough trends. The CEO, Jeffrey Thompson, pointed out. These issues explain the new law and fixing them will take time as they aim for a top notch utility. Customers have faced steep rate hikes without matching growth in usage or new accounts.

1:03Operating margins took a hit too, dropping 27% from 2019 to 2024, costing about 30 million. Dollars in impact last year. Now, current leaders are stabilizing things and prepping a revised budget for the board on March 20th. They hope this sets the stage for real improvements ahead. The Daily News Now is powered by our sponsor, Lincoln the Description. Do not just listen to podcasts. Get lost in them comfortably. L-I-SoliPillow.com