Customers of the Weir River Water System in Hingham, Hull, and North Cohasset are facing an average 8% increase on their water bills, following a proposal presented at a joint meeting of the Hingham Board of Water Commissioners on Wednesday. The plan, which would take effect July 1, 2026, includes a 3% rate increase and a new $65 annual Capital Debt Service Assessment (CDSA) for single-family homes. Water Superintendent Russ Tierney explained the increases are necessary to combat rising operational costs and fund critical infrastructure, including a new water storage tank in Hull, a new booster pump station in Hingham, and the complete rehabilitation of the aging Turkey Hill tank.

Tierney detailed a system grappling with significant cost inflation since its last rate adjustment in 2021, citing a 32% increase in operations contracts (largely chemicals), a 45% jump in water meter costs, and a 38% rise in pipe and fitting prices. “Even with these rising expenses, the proposed rate increase remains well within the range that was anticipated when the system was acquired,” Tierney said. The Citizens Advisory Board endorsed the proposal, with Chair Dave Anderson stating, “The rationale is straightforward. As you saw in tonight's presentation, operating costs have risen and the system has important capital needs.” The board’s review highlighted numerous system-wide improvements, from a new, more effective unidirectional flushing program to plans for an Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) that will enable monthly billing and faster leak detection.

Board of Water Commissioners members lauded the progress made since the town acquired the utility. Chair William Ramsey noted the positive impact of recent maintenance, asking Tierney, “It appears that we've seen some improvement since we've increased the frequency of the flushing program... Are you seeing it too?” Tierney confirmed the program has “worked very well,” significantly reducing water quality complaints during recent water main breaks. Commissioner Liz Klein praised the long-term planning, calling the presentation and recent work “really impressive.” Following a question about the system’s unaccounted-for water, Klein was told the goal is to be under 10% within five years. Commissioner Julie Staley confirmed that proactive water quality testing in schools extends to all public and private institutions served by the system, thanking staff for their “careful stewardship of the system and also your aggressive work on capital and improving the system everywhere you look.”

During public comment, residents from all three communities voiced concerns and offered praise. Jerry Tivera, a Hull Select Board member, thanked Tierney for his direct communication on the town's frequent water main breaks. “After seeing this presentation tonight, water quality is so important in our lives that I feel more comfortable,” Tivera said. Ann Murray of Hull echoed praise for improved communication but highlighted a lingering issue for her community: “It sticks in my craw that we still have... no direct representation. We don't have the right to vote for the water commissioners and you know it seems unfair when a third of our system is in hull.” Other topics included the timeline for replacing lead service lines, the possibility of desalination, and potential new rules for irrigation systems. The meeting concluded after all boards present voted to adjourn.