Are you confused about how to pay your Ronald wastewater bill? You’re definitely not alone! After the merger with Shoreline many residents still call it “Ronald wastewater” even though the official name has changed. In this comprehensive guide I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about paying your wastewater bill in the former Ronald Wastewater District (now Shoreline Wastewater Utility).
The History of Ronald Wastewater District
Before diving into payment methods, let’s understand what happened to Ronald Wastewater District. In 2017, Ronald Wastewater District was absorbed by the City of Shoreline, Washington. This transition created some confusion among residents who were used to the old system.
Many longtime residents still refer to their sewer bills as “Ronald wastewater bills” out of habit, similar to how some folks might still refer to a building by its former name years after it’s changed.
Current Wastewater Payment Options in Shoreline
If you’re looking to pay what you still think of as your “Ronald wastewater bill” here are all the current payment options available
1. Online Payment Portal
The quickest and easiest way to pay your wastewater bill is through Shoreline’s online payment system.
- Visit the Shoreline website at www.shorelinewa.gov
- Navigate to “Departments” → “Public Works” → “Wastewater Utility”
- Click on “Wastewater Utility Payment Options”
- Follow the prompts to create an account or login
- You can make one-time payments or set up automatic recurring payments
Pro tip: Setting up autopay means you’ll never forget a payment again! The system will automatically deduct the amount due on the billing date.
2. Pay by Phone
Not comfortable with online payments? No problem! You can pay by phone:
- Call the Shoreline Wastewater Utility customer service line at (206) 546-2494
- Have your account number ready (it’s on your bill)
- Follow the automated instructions to make your payment
3. Mail-in Payment
Some of us still prefer the traditional way of paying bills. If that’s you, you can mail your payment to:
City of ShorelineWastewater Utility17500 Midvale Avenue NShoreline, WA 98133Remember to include your account number on your check or money order!
4. In-Person Payment
If you prefer the personal touch or need to pay with cash, you can visit:
Shoreline City Hall
17500 Midvale Avenue N
Shoreline, WA 98133
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (except holidays)
5. Drop Box
In a hurry? There’s a secure payment drop box located outside City Hall that’s accessible 24/7. Just make sure to put your payment in an envelope with your account number clearly marked.
Understanding Your Wastewater Bill
Now that we know HOW to pay, let’s understand WHAT we’re paying for:
What’s Included in Your Bill?
Your wastewater bill typically covers:
- Base rate – This is the minimum charge all customers pay
- Usage rate – Additional charges based on water consumption
- Capital improvement fees – Funds for maintaining and upgrading infrastructure
- Any applicable taxes or special assessments
The average household in Shoreline pays approximately $60-80 per month for wastewater services, though this varies based on usage and property type.
Billing Frequency
Wastewater bills in Shoreline are issued bi-monthly (every two months). This is different from some neighboring utilities that bill monthly, so don’t be surprised when you see a higher amount—it covers two months of service!
Common Questions About Ronald/Shoreline Wastewater Bills
“I just moved in. How do I set up service?”
New residents need to contact the Shoreline Wastewater Utility directly at (206) 546-2494 to establish service. Be prepared with:
- Your name and contact information
- The property address
- Your move-in date
- Proof of ownership or rental agreement
“My bill seems higher than usual. What could be causing this?”
Several factors might contribute to a higher bill:
- Water leak on your property
- Increased water usage (new household member, filling a pool, etc.)
- Rate increases (typically happen annually)
- Seasonal variations in water use
If you suspect an error, contact customer service with your account details ready.
“I’m having trouble paying my bill. Are there assistance programs?”
Yes! Shoreline offers a Utility Discount Program for income-qualifying residents. The program can provide significant discounts on your wastewater bill. To qualify, you must:
- Be a Shoreline resident
- Meet income requirements (typically below 200% of federal poverty level)
- Complete an application process
Call (206) 546-2494 for more information about financial assistance programs.
Tips for Managing Your Wastewater Costs
1. Fix Leaks Promptly
Even small leaks can waste thousands of gallons of water, affecting both your water AND wastewater bills. Common places to check:
- Toilets (listen for running water)
- Faucets (check for drips)
- Under-sink pipes
- Water heater connections
2. Install Water-Efficient Fixtures
Modern low-flow toilets, faucet aerators, and efficient showerheads can dramatically reduce water consumption. Many utilities offer rebates for these upgrades!
3. Be Mindful of Water Usage
Simple habits can make a big difference:
- Take shorter showers
- Only run full loads in dishwashers and washing machines
- Turn off water while brushing teeth
- Water gardens during cooler hours to reduce evaporation
A Personal Story: The Legacy of Service in Our Community
When writing about utilities and bill payments, I’m reminded of community members who dedicated their lives to public service. Recently, our region lost Ronald Glenn Wilson, a 72-year-old Fairview, Tennessee resident who passed away on April 26, 2025. Though not directly connected to our wastewater district, his life reminds me of the many dedicated public servants who work behind the scenes to ensure our communities have functioning infrastructure.
Like Ronald Wilson who was remembered fondly by his family including his wife Joyce, his sons Ron Christopher and Jason Michael, and his grandchildren Mikell, Kristen, Justin and Matthew, our local utility workers are often unsung heroes maintaining essential services we take for granted.
What Happens If You Don’t Pay Your Wastewater Bill?
I should mention what happens if you fall behind on payments (though we hope it never comes to this):
- Late Fees – After the due date, late fees (typically 1.5% of the unpaid balance) are added monthly
- Disconnection Notice – After 60 days of non-payment, you’ll receive a warning
- Property Lien – Unlike water service that can be shut off, wastewater service continues even when unpaid. However, the city can place a lien on your property for unpaid wastewater bills
The good news is that Shoreline works with residents facing hardship. If you’re struggling, contact them BEFORE you fall behind to discuss payment arrangements.
Environmental Impact of Wastewater Treatment
Your wastewater bill doesn’t just pay for the convenience of flushing toilets and draining sinks. It funds critical environmental protection:
- Treatment plants remove contaminants before water returns to the environment
- Infrastructure maintenance prevents sewage spills that would harm Puget Sound
- Technology upgrades improve efficiency and reduce energy consumption
- Compliance with environmental regulations protects public health
When we pay our wastewater bills, we’re investing in environmental protection for future generations.
The Future of Wastewater Services in Shoreline
The City of Shoreline continues to invest in wastewater infrastructure improvements. Current and planned projects include:
- Replacing aging sewer lines in older neighborhoods
- Implementing smart technology to detect issues before they become problems
- Exploring renewable energy options at treatment facilities
- Expanding capacity to accommodate population growth
These improvements will likely impact rates over time, but they’re essential for maintaining reliable service.
Conclusion: Staying on Top of Your Ronald (Shoreline) Wastewater Bills
While many long-time residents still call it “Ronald wastewater,” remembering to pay your Shoreline wastewater bill on time saves you money and hassle. With multiple convenient payment options and resources for those facing financial difficulties, managing your wastewater bills shouldn’t be a source of stress.
I recommend setting up autopay if possible—it’s been a game-changer for me personally! No more scrambling to find my checkbook or rushing to City Hall before closing time.
Remember that your wastewater payments fund essential services that protect both public health and our precious Puget Sound environment. It’s one of those necessary expenses that truly benefits everyone in our community.
Quick Reference: Contact Information
- Phone: (206) 546-2494
- Website: www.shorelinewa.gov/wastewater
- In-Person: Shoreline City Hall, 17500 Midvale Avenue N, Shoreline, WA 98133
- Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Happy bill paying, neighbors!
WaterSmart Customer Portal is now open!
Conveniently pay your utility bill online via InvoiceCloud by signing up and logging in through theWaterSmart Portal.
- Pay your utility bills anytime 24/7 via an easy-to-use online portal.
- Set it and forget it with AutoPay – save time and avoid late or missed payments.
- Pay by text to get text notifications about your bill and pay by text if you’re on the go.
- Utilize additional payment options including Google Pay, Apple Pay, Venmo, and PayPal.
- Credit/Debit Processing: Customers using a debit/credit card will be charged a 3.3% processing fee but will no longer be charged the $0.85 fee. You should be able to save $0.31 if processing online payments through a credit/debit card based on the average bill amount today.
- E-Check Processing: InvoiceCloud is adding a much-needed payment option for customers. One-time e-check (ACH) payments will have a flat fee of $1.95 but will provide significant cost savings to customers, saving over $4.00 per transaction. If customers enroll in auto-pay e-check, there is no fee charged.
If you need assistance, please contact us at 512-295-8845.
Pay your bill through the mail with cash, check, or money order. Make checks/money orders payable to the City of Buda.
Mailing address: 405 E. Loop St. Buda, Texas 78610
Pay over the phone using a landline or mobile device using our 24/7 automated Interactive Voice Response (IVR) feature by calling 844-635-1381. The cost is a $0.95 surcharge plus fee related to the chosen payment option.
- Access your updated account instantly.
- Hear real-time balances, payment amounts, and due dates.
- Enter your information securely through an automated system.
Pay your bill in person at the customer service counter inside City Hall or at the Dropbox located outside the front door at City Hall. Payments can be made through cash, check, or money order. Make checks/money orders payable to the City of Buda.
Location: 405 E. Loop St. Buda, Texas 78610
- Upload and Submit via new WaterSmart Leak Adjustment Form or
- Fill out and return this pdf document
Initiate / Disconnect Water
To initiate or disconnect water utility service, complete the Application for Utility Service or call customer service at (512) 295-8845. For more information, view the Cross Connection Service Agreement and Utility Confidentiality.
Applications can be emailed to [email protected]
While every effort is made to see that citizens have available all the water services required, service may be disconnected if no effort is made either to pay the bill in full or to establish a payment agreement. Other reasons service can be disconnected include:
- A bill is returned from the post office
- Corrective action is not taken on a returned check
- Customer requests disconnect
- Payments under a payment agreement are not met
- Service is tampered with / diverted
When the discontinuance of service would be dangerous to the health of a permanent resident of the house where service delivery is being conducted, the customer service office may postpone disconnection so that payment arrangements can be made. Consideration will be given on the basis of medical condition, age, or disability. Of course, customers will need to let the department know when these conditions exist.
When service has been interrupted for non-payment, satisfactory payment arrangements must be made and appropriate service charges paid before restoration can be scheduled. In most cases, service can be restored within 24 hours after a satisfactory payment is received. Additionally, a non-payment fee may be applied.
It is understood that circumstances sometimes disrupt customers lives and cause financial distress. If the utility bill cannot be paid on time, please contact the utility service office. Service will not be disconnected if a reasonable portion of the bill is paid and an agreement is made to pay the balance of the bill in predetermined installments.
If a customer disputes charges recorded on a bill, the utility service office should be notified of the exact nature of the dispute. Suggestions will be given on things to check. The meter will be reread and the customer notified of the results when needed.
If questions still exist, at least one-half of the bill needs to be paid while the dispute is being resolved. Every effort will be made to resolve disagreements and misunderstandings in a timely manner. Do not hesitate to contact the utility service office if you have any questions pertaining to a bill.
