Rates for solid waste, water and sewer finalized

The Board of Public Works announced that solid waste removal rates have increased by $30, for a total of $140 for the year. 

The cost for the orange bags increased by $1 to $6 for a roll of the small bags, and by $2 for the larger bags for a total of $12. 

The rate includes weekly solid waste removal, recycling every two weeks and access to the transfer station. 

With 60% of the state having to ship their trash out of town, Dartmouth was able to keep their rates lower than other towns. Across the state, Dartmouth pays about $25.15 a ton, compared to the market rate of $110 a ton. Crapo Landfill also expanded its lifespan, partially due to the SMART program.

Sewer rates will increase by 16%. Most residents will now pay $29.43 for sewer and those who are connected to New Bedford sewer will be paying $84.80.

Water rates will increase by 7.5%, with the minimum water rate for a ⅝ meter and service increasing to $33.15. A 1-inch meter would increase to $46.55. The first tier, which is the first 450 cubic feet of water above the minimum, would go from $55.51 to $59.67. 

Water costs may potentially rise again in October, when the New Bedford Water Board meets to discuss its rates.

The Select Board urged residents to continue conserving water to save costs. Public Works Director Tim Barber reminded residents that they cannot use sprinklers on their lawns between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m., as these are the hottest hours and the water can evaporate.