Rates & Finances

Where your money goes

Board approves 2026-2027 budget

WEWJA's board recently approved the Authority's budget for the 2026-2027 fiscal year, which runs from July through June

Each year's budget is built to cover two core needs. It funds day-to-day operations and maintenance, including staffing, utilities, equipment and routine repairs that keep the system running reliably. It also funds capital investment, which funds larger projects like pump station upgrades and sewer rehabilitation. Planning for both ensures WEWJA can maintain reliable service today while continuing to invest in the system's long-term future.

Why public utilities use bonds to fund big projects

As WEWJA moves forward with major infrastructure investments, the Authority is exploring the use of bonds — a common and financially responsible tool used by public utilities across the country. Bonds work like a loan: WEWJA borrows money upfront to pay for large capital projects, then repays that amount over time, with interest, using future revenue.

Bonding allows the cost of a major project — like a new treatment facility — to be spread out over many years, rather than requiring customers to cover the full expense all at once through steep, sudden rate increases. This approach also lets WEWJA take advantage of low-interest public financing options that are tax-exempt and generally unavailable to private companies, helping keep long-term costs down for ratepayers.

In short, bonds allow essential infrastructure to be built now, when it's needed, while spreading the cost fairly over the years customers will benefit from it.