Humbolt Utilities-Water Department

Humbolt Utilities-Water Department Municipal Water Report Info

Humboldt Utilities is a municipal organization providing electric, gas, and water/sewer services to approximately 5,000 customers in Humboldt and surrounding areas. The utility is managed by a five-member Board of Public Utilities with four members appointed to staggered four-year terms and one member representing the Mayor and Board of Alderman.

All operations and improvements are funded entirely through revenue from electricity, natural gas, and water-sewer service sales. Despite being municipally owned, Humboldt Utilities receives no tax money from the City. In fact, it stands as the largest taxpayer to Humboldt's general fund through in-lieu-of tax payments calculated according to State Law. For fiscal year 2017-2018, these payments totaled $413,044.

Water quality in Humboldt benefits from abundant fresh, pure water supplied from underground wells. The city has earned a perfect score of 100 for its water system. Both Water and Wastewater Plant facilities maintain complete diesel-powered backup generation capable of extended emergency operation.

The wastewater treatment plant has received the KY-TN Operational Excellence Award for six consecutive years (2012-2017) for outstanding service management. In 2017, Humboldt Utilities was recognized with the Control Authority Pretreatment Excellence Award for exceptional management of its pretreatment program, while the wastewater plant operator received the William D. Hatfield Award for outstanding performance and professionalism.

For decades, Humboldt Utilities has established itself as the benchmark in West Tennessee for affordable rates and excellent service. All departments maintain strong financial reserves with minimal debt, ensuring continued low rates without compromising service quality.