On February 1, 2025, Everett will implement an increase in utility rates for water, sewer, and stormwater services to fund vital infrastructure improvements. The City Council has approved a four-year plan to address aging facilities and meet regulatory requirements from the Department of Ecology. Among the critical projects are the construction of a new $80 million drinking water reservoir and extensive upgrades to the 40-year-old Water Filtration Plant, costing $38 million. Furthermore, to comply with an Agreed Order, Everett plans to invest $200 million in new sewer storage and treatment facilities to minimize sewer overflows into Port Gardner Bay. Ryan Sass, the public works director, highlighted that construction inflation has significantly impacted costs since 2021.

The utility department remains committed to providing reliable services and has established rate assistance programs that benefited 530 households in 2024. For detailed information on the rate changes and assistance programs, residents can visit the utility’s website. These improvements are crucial for maintaining safe and clean drinking water and effective wastewater management in the city.