SUGAR GROVE, VA — The Rye Valley Water Authority held a public hearing on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at 7:00 PM to discuss a proposed increase in water rates for customers in the Rye Valley District. The meeting took place at the Authority’s office in Sugar Grove and was attended by board members Donald Bonham, Beth Fleshman, Bobby Coe, Sam Parsons, Danny Slemp, Gator Cornett, and William Farmer. One resident from the district was present.
During the hearing, Chairman Donald Bonham outlined the financial challenges facing the utility and emphasized the need for a rate adjustment to address ongoing infrastructure concerns. The proposed rate structure, which will take effect with the January 1 billing cycle, is as follows:
• 0–1,000 gallons: $25.00 flat rate
• 1,001–6,000 gallons: $9.00 per 1,000 gallons
• Over 6,000 gallons: $10.00 per 1,000 gallons
Bonham expressed concern about the financial future of the Authority, citing aging infrastructure and limited resources. Board members noted that repairs and upgrades are being made as finances and equipment availability allow. Bonham also mentioned that rates have not increased since 2018.
Under old business, the board reported that all required documentation has been submitted to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), though no response has been received. Additionally, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has not yet responded to a pending grant proposal. The Authority also applied for a Mount Rogers Planning District (MRPD) grant before the August 31, 2025, deadline, requesting $22,100 to fund essential equipment, including air regulators, pumps, pipe, clamps, a tapping machine, meters, and miscellaneous supplies. As of the meeting date, no decision had been communicated.
The October 2025 water accountability report revealed that only 37% of the water produced was billed to customers. Of the 4,521,973 gallons produced, just 1,693,339 gallons were accounted for in billing, leaving a discrepancy of 2,828,634 gallons. According to the American Water Works Association (AWWA), an acceptable water loss rate is generally less than 10 percent, with up to 75 percent of water loss considered potentially recoverable. Common causes of such losses include aging infrastructure, leaks, inaccurate meters, and unauthorized consumption.
The Rye Valley Water System currently serves approximately 450 connections. The board emphasized the importance of continued investment in system maintenance and upgrades to improve efficiency and reduce water loss.
For more information or to stay informed about future meetings, residents are encouraged to contact the Rye Valley Water Authority directly at 276-677-3000.
You can contact Sarah Taylor at: reporterstaylor3cn@proton.me
