Making Sense of Water and Wastewater Rates: Legal Rules and Real-World Realities
Friday, October 24th, 2025
10:00am - 12:30pm
Registration fee: $55
This workshop provides an overview of how utilities set rates within the legal framework of North Carolina law. We’ll explain the guardrails that state statutes place on what charges are allowed, highlight common practices utilities use to balance fairness, affordability, and financial stability, and share practical examples of how boards, managers, and finance officers make tough rate decisions. Participants will leave with a clear sense of both the legal boundaries and the practical tools that shape rates—and how those choices impact customers and long-term system sustainability.
This training will take place online via Zoom followed by 30 minutes in regional sessions hosted by some councils of government. Each COG will decide whether to convene participants from their region in person or online. The School will provide Zoom breakout rooms for participants who want to remain online for the regional portion. You will receive instructions for your region after you register.






