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The time has come for a fundamental shift in the way Utahns pay for the water they use.
As it now stands, most Utahns probably have no idea how much their water actually costs. They pay a regular bill to a local water company not realizing the relatively low amount charged is generously subsidized through some of the other taxes they pay.
In reality, water costs Utahns a lot more than they realize.
But a timely movement is afoot in Utah to have consumers pay more directly the actual cost of the water they use. The idea is to get away from using sales and property taxes to finance water projects.
It is an idea that makes sense, especially in our semi-arid climate where water is a most precious commodity.
Think about it. Low rates actually encourage use and in many instances, waste. On the other hand, what better way to "slow the flow" than to charge more by bringing water rates more in line with actual costs!
People will use as much or as little as they’re willing to pay for.
KSL agrees with those who argue that sales and property taxes are an inequitable way to pay for water development and delivery. While the abandonment of a system that has been in place for generations is wrought with controversy, we believe the shift from tax subsidies to user fees should be pursued.
