Utility Commission

Current Members

The City/County Utility Commission oversees the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County water treatment plants and distribution system, its wastewater (sewage) treatment plants and sewage collection system, the landfills for solid waste, construction and demolition debris, and yard waste. The Commission's operations are financed through income from water and sewer fees and landfill tipping fees. With this money the Commission maintains a staff of approximately 342 employees who operate and maintain three water plants, two sewage treatment plants, three landfills, and a distribution and collection system that includes 14 water tanks, seven pumping stations for fresh water, 52 pumping stations for wastewater, and 3,296 miles of water and sewer lines. 

The Commission also finances its own capital improvements through fees and revenue bonds that are paid off with income from the water and sewer system. The Utility Commission does not have authority to issue bonds or debt without the approval of the City Council.

In addition to overseeing operations, the Commission is also responsible for setting appropriate rates and extension policies. All operations are financed through a separate utility fund.

Finances - Utility Commission

Commission Executive Summaries

How Appointments Are Made

Current Setup

Committees

Standing Committees

History - Utility Commission

View history of the Utility Commission (pdf/548k)