Local brewers are up in arms about proposed increases in wastewater connection fees. The new fees would raise the cost for breweries to dump their wastewater down the sewer by 35% every year over the next three years, beginning in fiscal year 2025.
The city argues that the fee increase ensures “growth pays for growth” rather than existing customers covering brewery expansions. The fees only cover the costs of services, and the city does not generate a profit from them.
Yet Idaho Brewers United and local breweries insist these fees will stifle growth or worse. “Some of the current proposals that have been out there will be detrimental to the brewing industry and will result in the closure of those businesses,” said Idaho Brewers United Executive Director Sheila Francis said at a recent public hearing.
Boise’s wastewater connection fees are based on estimated gallons per day, biochemical oxygen demand, and total suspended solids in the wastewater. The city claims the fees are determined by each brewery’s production capacity and system needs. However, many brewery owners struggle with the lack of clarity on how fees are calculated and assessed, making it hard for them to plan or expand their businesses. At the same time, they claim the city does not sufficiently understand the brewery process and how the fees will impact their business.
Research into fee restructuring began in 2017 but was paused during the COVID-19 pandemic. The current fee structure has been in place since 2014. City officials assured brewers that retroactive fees would not be applied, and discussions with breweries will continue.
“In good faith, my staff is working with breweries,” said Mayor Lauren McLean. “This is about fees for all sorts of users and the amount of stuff you’re putting into a system and how you pay for it.”
