For the first time in more than a decade, Langley will increase its sewer fees. And both homeowners and developers will see higher rates.

Langley City Council approved the increases Wednesday.

The connection fee, the one-time payment paid when a developer connects to the city’s sewer system, will more than double. Connection fees will rise from $2,000 to $4,811, said Rick Hill, director of public works.

Sewer rates for residents will rise almost $6, and will increase from $26 every two months to $31.21.

The per gallon charge jumps up from 0.7 cent per gallon to 0.86 cent per gallon.

Though it may seem like a big jump, the changes make rates comparable with other Whidbey communities, city officials said.

“We’re now pretty close to Coupeville,” Hill said.

Hill said the increase was necessary and long overdue.

It’s been more than a decade since the connection fee was increased.

“Considering that the numbers didn’t change since 1994 — inflation just sucked the life out of this number,” Hill said.

The fee schedule adjustment is part of the comprehensive sewer plan update that was approved earlier this month by the Langley City Council.

The city reviewed its sewer and wastewater system plan and came up with some changes.

Hill said the major points of the update are:

• Upgrading the treatment facility, with the new belt filter dewatering system as the first step. Eventually the plant must be expanded, however.

• Changing to a low-pressure sewer as the preferred sewer system in Langley. That will make it cheaper for the city to operate, Hill said.

• Putting in new city-owned sewer extensions.

The fee increases will take effect Nov. 1.

Michaela Marx Wheatley can be reached at 221-5300 or mmarxwheatley@southwhidbeyrecord.com.