On August 27, 2026, the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC) issued Order 01 in Docket UW-260574, approving Richview Water Company’s (Richview) initial tariff. The UTC found the tariff’s rates to be fair, just, reasonable, and sufficient, and authorized the tariff to take effect on September 1, 2026.
Richview is a new investor-owned water utility serving residential developments north of Pasco, Washington. Richview’s water system received approval from the Washington Department of Health to serve up to 600 connections. Richview filed its initial tariff on June 30, 2026, to establish rates and terms of service as the residential development expands.
Commission Staff reviewed Richview’s proposed expenses, utility plant, contributions in aid of construction, projected water usage, and rate design. Following Staff’s review, Richview submitted revised rates that reduced the monthly base charge and increased volumetric usage charges. The approved rates produce an average monthly residential bill of $66.05, compared to $66.19 under Richview’s original proposal.
The approved tariff establishes rates for metered water service, ready-to-serve service, and new service connections. It also establishes a two-block volumetric rate structure rather than the three-block structure often used for water utilities. Staff found the two-block structure appropriate because Richview provides potable water, while a separate utility, River Ranch Water Company, provides irrigation water for outdoor use.
The UTC also recognized that Richview, as a new utility, does not have the historical operating cost data ordinarily available in a general rate case. The Commission therefore allowed the initial tariff to take effect while requiring Richview to file a general rate case by October 1, 2028, after gaining additional operating experience and cost information. Sanger Greene PC (Max Greene) represented Richview in the proceeding.
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