Multiple factors can lead to an elevated water bill. The utility bill you receive is split into different sections. Water is billed from what is captured through your services water meter (billed at the nearest 100 cubic feet). Wastewater is billed based on the amount of water that went through the meter and then presumably down a connected drain. A leaking toilet or pipe fitting are among the most common reasons why a water bill will rise.
*Call 503-668-7449 to discuss your water usage with our utility clerk.
In winter, treated water is returned to Tickle Creek (which goes into the Clackamas River). Higher winter flows from rain and snow increase the creek’s capability to accept treated wastewater without harming aquatic life. During the summer, the city produces highly treated “recycled water” that is used to irrigate plants at a nearby nursery. The city is proud to be conserving water resources through this longstanding, successful water recycling program.
The treatment plant was upgraded in 1998. It is capable of treating 1.25 million gallons per day during dry weather and up to 4 million gallons per day during wet weather. An activated sludge process is used followed by effluent filtration. Ultraviolet (UV) light is used to disinfect the treated wastewater eliminating chlorine disinfection, which tends to harm beneficial aquatic species.
Biological stages in wastewater treatment plants are not able to remove substances such as pharmaceuticals, PFAS, Trihalomethanes, Microbeads, Sodium and Potassium Chloride, halogenated compounds, and cyanides from industrial wastewater.
NO!! Only the 3 P’s are allowed. Poop, Pee and Paper, (Flushable wipes are not paper and are very dangerous and destructive to our sewer system) reference SMC Sec. 13.12.080
Oregon DEQ has mandated that Sandy discontinue wastewater effluent to Tickle Creek. Sandy is exploring all options for treatment and discharge of wastewater in it's effort to find the most fiscally responsible option.
