American Fork is updating its pressurized irrigation rate structure to better reflect the true cost of water delivery and encourage conservation, according to an October 1 statement. The city is moving from a flat-rate system to a tiered system based on lot size and actual water usage to reward efficient users.
The city worked with Bowen Collins & Associates, a water engineering and consulting firm, to evaluate the culinary and pressurized irrigation water systems. This study included an analysis of system costs, revenue requirements, and proposed rate structures. The firm also examined future costs for maintaining, repairing, and improving the pressurized irrigation system, including master-planned and repair-and-replacement projects. The city's master plan currently identifies projects through 2034, and the rate study assumes capital needs after 2034 will continue at levels projected for 2033 and 2034.
To assist residents in understanding how these changes affect them, the city will offer a utilities dashboard through Yoppify, its communications platform for utilities and subscribers. Starting in January 2026, this online tool will allow customers to track culinary and pressurized irrigation usage, view their rate tier and lot size group, and compare bills under the new rates. The tool will also provide usage history and bill comparison tools to help residents make informed decisions.
The city stated that the new tiered system is designed to be more equitable. Under the current flat-rate system, all customers pay the same base rate regardless of usage. The new structure aims to ensure that those who use more water contribute proportionally to the system's costs, supporting sustainable water management and the long-term viability of water infrastructure.
A town hall meeting regarding pressurized irrigation metering is scheduled for October 20, 2026, at 6 PM. The meeting will be held at the Historic City Hall, located at 31 Church Street.
