Financial Information

Charleston Water System operations are funded by revenue from rates and fees charged for water and wastewater service, interest-bearing investments, and revenue bond proceeds. Impact fees charged for new connections to our water and sewer systems are an important source of revenue that can only be used for capital improvements related to growth.

We do not receive tax revenue.

Budget

Our fiscal year is January 1 – December 31, and the annual budget is approved by our Board of Commissioners. Net balances from operations are held in cash reserves to reduce the amount of future borrowing for capital improvements.  View our 2023 budget.

W-9 Form

2022 Form (PDF) 

Debt and Bond Ordinance Requirements

We periodically issue revenue bonds to fund capital improvement projects. Bond issues must be approved by Charleston City Council, and the ordinances that govern the borrowing terms require us to maintain net earnings equal to at least 120% of the annual principal and interest requirement in each fiscal year.

Financial Reports

Annual Financial Report

This report is prepared in conformance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and includes audited financial statements. Each year's report is completed in June of the following year. Please note that Annual Financial Reports are not updated for developments subsequent to the date of the independent auditor’s report. These reports are dated information and should be used for historical reference only. Published annually in June.

Most Recent Annual Report | View Archives

Popular Annual Financial Report (PAFR)

This is an unaudited summary of our financial activities that is derived from the CAFR, but is presented in a less technical, abbreviated format. Published annually in June.

Most Recent PAFR | View Archives

Monthly Financial Reports

More Info

For questions about rates, fees, budget, or to request a copy of a financial report, contact our Finance department at (843) 727-6922 or email us.