Washington plans to raise water rates

Kalen McCain

May. 19, 2022 9:32 am

While base rates will go unchanged, the city of Washington plans to up water and sewage usage rates by 5% after a first reading of the ordinance change to do so at a meeting on Tuesday. (GTNS photo by Gretchen Teske)

The Washington City Council held its first hearing for a 5% increase in water and sewer usage rates, setting both to $4.99 per 100 cubic feet.

The plan to raise rates was included in the city’s most recent budget. Mayor Jaron Rosien said the change was needed.

“It’s the least fun vote to take, but we’ve seen the consequences of not taking these actions,” he said. “They include astronomical increases for not-maintained city infrastructure.”

Council members voted unanimously to approve the ordinance change’s first reading, out of the total three readings required.

“I empathize with everyone’s position that it’d be fun to vote no, but our job is to vote according to what’s in the best interests of the community as a whole,” Rosien said. “This was a part of the budget discussion and budget plan for the year, and to change course would require significant changes in many other areas as a ripple effect.”

Comments: Kalen.McCain@southeastiowaunion.com