NTUA approves sharp water, wastewater rate hikes
WINDOW ROCK
Faced with two paths to higher water and wastewater rates, the Navajo Tribal Utility Authority Management Board chose the version that raises bills faster in the first two years.
The board approved the phased increase June 23, after a final public hearing June 17 in Window Rock and 12 information meetings that began in the spring, according to the utility.
Average residential wastewater charges will rise 40% in September, another 40% in 2027, then 30% in 2028 and 25% in 2029. Water rates will rise 15% this year, followed by 10% increases in each of the next three years.
The average monthly water bill will rise from $35.37 in 2025 to $40.68 this year, $44.75 in 2027, $49.22 in 2028 and $54.14 in 2029. The average wastewater bill will climb faster, from $19.71 in 2025 to $27.60 this year, $38.64 in 2027, $50.23 in 2028 and $62.79 in 2029.
According to NTUA, the phased option costs ratepayers slightly less over time than a steady increase. Customers who attended the meetings said the increases will fall on elders, low-income households and families already struggling to cover basic costs.
To read the full article, please see the July 2, 2026, edition of the Navajo Times.
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I-40, WB @ Winslow