Why must we pay sewer charges as well as water charges?

Sewer charges have been included on Albany water bills for the last two decades. We must charge for sewer use because all of the wastewater collected is treated by Albany County at its wastewater treatment plants. The county bills us for treating the waste, and we must recover this cost from property owners.

Back in the 1970s, it was determined that the fairest way to assess sewer charges was to base them on the amount of water used by our customers since most of our customers generate waste in their daily lives, and that waste ends up in our sewer system. Because we have a combined storm and sanitary sewer system, wastewater, whether it is from a household toilet or lawn sprinkler, will end up in the sewer system.  As more wastewater flows through the county sewage treatment plants, the Albany Water Department faces higher charges for processing the increased volume of wastewater and these costs are passed on to the property owners.

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1. Where does my drinking water come from?
2. Who owns the water service leading to my house?
3. My water bill is higher than expected. What should I do?
4. Can I pay my bill online?
5. What is the oldest water main in the City?
6. Why do owners of vacant property still have to pay a water and sewer fee?
7. Is it true that the Albany Water Department is checking every water main in the City?
8. Why must we pay sewer charges as well as water charges?
9. My lawn was damaged during a water main break. Will you replace it?
10. Who repairs the sidewalks and driveways damaged during a water main break?
11. Why are there more water main breaks in the cold weather?
12. Can the public visit any of the Water Department facilities or reservoirs?
13. Many Capital District communities have water restrictions. How about Albany?
14. I have heard Albany water was judged the best in the State. Is that true?
15. Does the Albany Water Department protect the reservoirs and facilities from any potential threats?
16. Where does Six Mile Water Works get its name?
17. How do I know that water in my home is safe to drink?
18. Who should I contact if my water has a funny smell, taste, or appearance?
19. If my pressure is low, what do I do?
20. What are your hours?
21. I have lead pipes in my home, what do I do?