CARRBORO - The OWASA board of directors adopted an operating budget for 2012-13 and five-year capital program; and rates that will go into effect in October, 2012.

Monthly charges for water, sewer and reclaimed water service will not increase in October, 2012. For an individually-metered residential customer using 4,000 gallons per month, the water and sewer bill will remain at $70.66.

Several other rates and fees will increase in October 2012, including the one-time system capacity or “service availability” fee for new connections to the OWASA system. These fees will increase 3.2 percent, which reflects the five-year historical average increase in the construction cost index.

The annual budget includes $19.3 million for operations, $11.1 million for capital improvements, $225,000 for capital equipment and $8.2 million for debt payments.

One of OWASA’s highest priorities is renewing, replacing and improving its “infrastructure” of pipelines and treatment facilities to ensure reliable, quality service to customers. Cash funding of new capital projects and debt payments for previously completed projects account for about half of OWASA’s monthly bill.

OWASA’s 5-year capital program totals $68.8 million including $11.1 million in FY 2013 as noted above. Most of the FY 2013 funds will be used to replace or rehabilitate underground pipes, and to improve the aeration system in the biological treatment process and install additional odor control improvements at the Mason Farm Wastewater Treatment Plant. Improvements to the aeration and mixing system at the wastewater plant will significantly reduce electricity use starting in 2015.