Somerton City Council to discuss proposed water rate changes

Somerton City Council will present its plan to increase water and wastewater charges for the public at tonight’s council meeting.

The city has not increased its water and wastewater rates in 10 years, meanwhile, other utilities have increased rates by 50 to 60 percent according to city officials.

Tonight’s city council meeting is only to present the proposed changes. A vote on the proposal is still to be determined. Tonight’s council meeting begins at 7 p.m.

If the change is implemented it could increase water bills for residents by $3.89 over the next five years. Wastewater charges could increase for residents by $12.34 over the five year period.

For commercial businesses, it means water charges could rise by $4.55 by 2023. Wastewater charges for commercial businesses could increase by $6.56.

Rate adjustments are required to ensure the city can cover its cost and keep systems operating according to city officials.