City Commission Meeting - 3/17 - Public Hearing Item "D" - Water and Sewer Rate Increases

Resolution Nos. 14-2009 and 15-2009 – Public Hearings – to approve a 13.25% increasefor the next five years; approve a 9.75% increase in local sewer rate in 2009 and a 9% increase per year for the next four years; approve a new regional sewer rate of $1.89/1,000 gallon for 2009 and 5.5% increase per year for the next four years; and approve a new rate design for billing structure for water and sewer to provide a larger incentive for users with discretionary use to conserve and ensure conformance with accepted industry practice and consistency between services. in potable water rate

Look what's just around the corner with this Commission - 66.25% increase in our already high water rates over the next five years - this to pay for the Reverse Osmosis and the County water deal. Then we have a 45.75% increase in sewer rates over the next five years. There are also changes in the thresholds of water use to discourage consumption - the less you use, the less per unit you pay.

How does this keep us competitive with other municipalities in the region? Aren't those firms that we should be targeting for the Lake Worth Park of Commerce going to be concerned about our water rates? Especially if they are dependent upon using water in the manufacturing process? What about restaurants? What about our own TIGHT household budgets?

Where is the indignation from those who complain about the doubling of the beach decal fee from $10 a year to $20 a year?

Click title for link to further back-up - remember, this was only made available on the city's website at noon yesterday.