Lexington County, August 16, 2025

News Summary

Residents in Lexington County are expressing their dissatisfaction with the flat-rate sewer billing system imposed by the Joint Municipal Water and Sewer Commission. Monthly bills of approximately $97 do not reflect actual water usage, leading to complaints from homeowners unaware that they would be charged the same regardless of consumption. Many residents advocate for a more equitable billing solution, emphasizing the need for proper metering and alternative billing systems. The community has taken steps to petition the JMWSC for fairer practices and is eager for negotiations.

Lexington County Residents Demand Change Over Flat-Rate Sewer Billing System Affecting Monthly Costs

Residents of the Summer Orchard neighborhood in Lexington County are voicing their frustration over the Joint Municipal Water and Sewer Commission’s (JMWSC) flat-rate sewer billing system, which charges approximately $97 per month for sewer services. This fee, which assumes an average usage of 10,000 gallons, does not take into account the actual water usage of individual households.

Many homeowners, including recent buyer Dr. Jerahn Hyman, were shocked to learn about the flat rate after moving into the area. Hyman initially mistook the $96 monthly bill for a quarterly charge and felt compelled to investigate further when he received a second bill for the same amount. Hyman reached out to his neighbors, prompting others to realize they were similarly unaware of the structure of the sewage billing. Residents noted their disbelief that they could be charged the same amount regardless of how much water they actually used.

Neighbor Janette Stefanelli expressed her frustration over the matter, stating that she only learned of the issue thanks to Hyman’s initiative. Concerns have emerged from residents regarding the absence of proper metering systems in their homes, as most were built without sewer meters. The cost to install a sewer meter reportedly stands at around $700, which many residents find to be exorbitant and unjustifiable given their actual consumption levels.

Resident Donna Moser has raised suspicions regarding the commission’s intentions, suggesting they profit financially from residents through the flat-rate system. In response, JMWSC General Manager Jay Nicholson has asserted that the flat rate is connected to the operational costs of the sewer system and is not arbitrarily set. He explained that the fee comprises a volumetric rate capped at 10,000 gallons along with a maintenance fee. Nicholson acknowledged that while sewer meter installation is an option, many residents may balk at the upfront expense.

Despite the JMWSC’s defense of the flat-rate system, residents like Dr. Hyman are determined to pursue equitable solutions for billing. They emphasized the need for continuous dialogue with the commission to establish fairness in the charging structure. The community’s resolve is underscored by Hyman’s invocation of the necessity to stand against unfair practices, illustrating their collective determination for change.

Many families within Summer Orchard, including the Milice family, have also found themselves paying the flat fee despite considerably lower water usage. One family reported using only 1,900 gallons yet still being charged the full rate. In light of their collective situation, approximately 130 households organized and secured 111 signatures on a petition advocating for a more equitable billing rate methodology.

Residents have suggested possible solutions, including the implementation of a billing system based on average winter water consumption or collaborating with the Gilbert Summit Rural Water District to obtain more accurate data about water usage. Their efforts reflect a community ready to engage in future meetings with the JMWSC to negotiate more just billing practices.

Key Issues Raised by Residents:

• The flat-rate sewer fee does not adjust according to actual water usage.
• The absence of metering in homes prevents accurate cost assessments.
• The high cost of installing a sewer meter is seen as prohibitive.
• Residents are concerned about the financial motivations behind the commission’s billing structure.
• Collective advocacy has resulted in organized petitions and community discussions about potential reforms.

Background Information:

The JMWSC operates under policies designed to cover operational costs and ensure compliance with regulations. However, these systems have faced increasing scrutiny from the residents of Summer Orchard as they seek a more transparent and fair pricing system for essential services.

FAQs

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Additional Resources

• WLTX: Lexington Residents Demand Change Over Flat-Rate Sewer Charges
• The State: Residents Rally Against Flat-Rate Sewer Fees
• Post and Courier: SC Underground Utility Digging at Statehouse
• Wikipedia: Sewerage
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Sewer

Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON WRITER

The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexington.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.