Deconstructing the conundrum of rising rates and water affordability

AWWA CEO David LaFrance discusses the findings of the association's State of the Water 2025 report, which identifies financial concerns as the top challenge for water utilities. This encompasses rates, funding, and financing, and it moved up from its previous position as the number two concern. The report also highlights financial sustainability (ranked sixth) as a companion challenge, indicating utilities' dual focus on securing capital for projects and ensuring long-term financial viability.

The cost of providing water service has increased faster than inflation, leading to rising rates and affordability issues, which utilities must balance against the need to protect public health and maintain water quality. 

(Editor's note: The description for this video was written with the assistance of generative AI.)