We recently completed our bi-annual customer service survey. Thank you to those who took the time to complete the survey. Below are some reoccurring questions that we would like to address to all of our customers.

Download a Printable PDF of the 2009 customer survey results (September 28, 2009)

FAQ

What is the monthly customer charge on my bill?

The monthly customer charge attached to electric, gas and water bills is used to pay for costs of providing and maintaining the distribution system (Overhead line, transformers, Gas Pipe, Water Pipe, etc.) and fixed costs (Transfer to the city, Property Insurance, etc.) that occur regardless of how many services or how much of the service you use. This amount is based on a rate study provided by Missouri River Energy Services of Sioux Falls.

Why is the number of billing days always different on my utility bill?

The number of billing days each month is determined by the following:

• Number of days in the month and our in-ability to read on the same day
• Number of ‘working’ days in the month that we are able to read the meters, this is also affected by holidays and when the weekends fall during the month.

Why am I charged a fee of $2.95 for my credit card payment?

Watertown Municipal Utilities uses Payment Service Network, Inc. to process credit card payments online. If the $2.95 fee was not charged to the customer, this fee would be charged to Watertown Municipal Utilities, and we would need to pass on the additional fees to all of our customers. It is estimated that these fees would cost all utility customers approximately $40,000 per year in additional service fees. The utility board has decided to pass this fee along to the customers who use this online payment service instead of to all of our customers. This helps to keep our rates among the lowest in the state.

We also offer free automatic bank withdrawal for our customers who wish to have their bill taken out of their checking account. We also offer free budget billing. Please contact us at 605-882-6233 or visit our website to sign up for any of these services.

Who do I contact about my sewer and garbage service questions?

Watertown Municipal Utilities is in charge of the electric, gas and water services. The City of Watertown is in charge of the sewer and garbage services. Watertown Municipal Utilities bills these city services so they are consolidated on one bill as a convenience for our customers. If you have any questions about your sewer or garbage services, please contact City Hall at (605) 882-6200 or visit their website at www.watertownsd.us.

What is my responsibility regarding my water service line?

With the exception of the meter and the equipment used to read the meter, ownership begins at the connection to the main in the street. Proper protection of the meter is still the responsibility of the customer. The Department does have the right to operate the Customers curb valves for disconnecting service, making repairs, or eliminating a hazardous condition.

What is the hardness of my water?

The hardness of the city water is between 10 and 11 grains hard or 170 to 190 mg/L. If you soften your water this is the range that you will want to set your softener. We have our policies and other water quality information on our Web Site or contact us at 882-6233 with any questions you may have.