Hike in Waterville water, sewer bills scheduled for Feb. 1

12/10/2008

Waterville residents will face a rate hike on water and sewer bills starting Feb. 1.

Village Council approved Monday an increase in customers' combined monthly water and sewer charge by 3.8 percent next year to $61.69, based on the 6,000 gallons per month average consumption.

The rates will climb for three years after: by 3.5 percent in 2010; 4 percent in 2011, and 3.5 percent in 2012.

Village officials have said the cost is being passed to residents as Toledo raises prices for Waterville by 4.5 percent per year for the next four years.

Village operation and maintenance costs are also expected to rise by 2 percent per year.

Capital charges - flat fees regardless of consumption to cover system improvements - will more than double to $6.50 per month.

The charges then increase from $7 in 2010 to $8 in 2011 and 2012.

The sewer capital charge remains unchanged next year, at $12.23.

The charge then increases to $13 in 2010 and $13.50 in 2011 and 2012.

No council member or citizen has publicly questioned the need for new fees.