Summary
Water rates haven't gone up since 2011, and the city faces aging lines, 98 main breaks last year, and budget deficits. The committee sent a four-year, 38-cent increase to council — expect bills to rise gradually rather than all at once.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 8
- Last 30 days
- 3
Rising — discussed at 4 meetings since Sep 10, 2026, up from 1 in the two months before.
Impact analysis
Typical bills would rise about $2.76 per month under the Feldman plan; Coffey's rejected alternative would have raised bills roughly 20% over two years.
The water system itself — funding for line replacement, smart meters, and avoiding future rate shocks.
Water customers, particularly those on fixed incomes, who will pay higher bills.
Mentions & discussions (8)
City Council - Oct 22, 2026
Stow water bills will rise 12.5% a year, totaling 50% over four years — about $2.76 more a month. Supporters point to aging water lines (98 main breaks a year), meter replacements and a possible water tower; critics say the increase is bigger than the known deficit. The senior discount rises from 10% to 15%.
Stow council considers first water rate increase since 2001
Stow council considers first water rate increase since 2001 Cleveland.com
City Council - Oct 8, 2026
The city wants to raise water fees after years without increases, reaching about 50% higher by 2030. A typical household would pay about $4 more per month starting 2027, funding meter replacement and water line work. Coffey is pushing for a public hearing and the finance director's lower 30% option.
Public Improvements Committee - Sep 24, 2026
Water rates haven't gone up since 2011, and the city faces aging lines, 98 main breaks last year, and budget deficits. The committee sent a four-year, 38-cent increase to council — expect bills to rise gradually rather than all at once.
City Council - Sep 24, 2026
A first reading of an ordinance raising certain water system fees — costs that flow directly to water customers' bills. No vote yet.
Public Improvements Committee - Sep 10, 2026
Stow's water funds are running deficits and the system needs roughly $35 million in upgrades — new meters, a second water tower, and replacement of 1956-era lines. Every option on the table raises bills over the next four years; the question is how much and how fast. Council Member Coffey wants a cheaper two-year plan before committing.
City Council - Sep 10, 2026
Ordinance 2026-137 would raise certain water fees for Stow water users. It didn't come out of committee Thursday, so it stayed in committee — no vote yet, so bills aren't changing yet.
Finance Committee - Aug 6, 2026
Water rate legislation with multiple options comes September 10, including the Raftelis study a previous council rejected. A water meter replacement project in 2027 will require new debt, making a rate decision likely.
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