The staff has told me that some of our operating expense items have increased in cost due to the current USA tariffs on products purchased from out of this country.
For example, we purchase about 20-25 water meters for new users and replacements per month. They are manufactured in Mexico. Earlier this year they cost $123.32. They now cost $147.98 - an increase of 20% due to tariff costs. This may add up to an additional $6,520.24 more per year.
Also, the reading device on the meter cost $95.36 in early 2025 and now costs $114.43. This is also a 20% increase due to tariffs and could cost an additional $5,034.48 per year.
These two items now will cost us $11,544.69 more per year. The manufacturer is not absorbing the costs, so our customers will pay. It’s another expense item in the rates that drive operating costs up. This same issue is affecting every other public water provider in the area such as Toledo, Bowling Green, Perrysburg, etc. I assume.
So, without going into a discussion on economic and political decisions, these tariffs are costing us more and the consumer is paying the increased cost.
Jerry Greiner, President
July 30, 2025