LISBON – A public hearing Tuesday on a proposed 50.19 percent water rate increase, effective Oct. 1, drew about 30 residents, all of whom opposed the hike.
Water commissioners say that since the last rate increase in 2004, the Water Department has incurred additional operational and debt service costs from construction of a well and filtration plant, a building for the department and installation of a water main in Upland Road.
Commissioners “are trying to look out for the interests of the town and customers,” General Manager Paul Adams said. “A lot of work needed to be done that wasn’t taken care of in the past.”
A $3 million bond was approved last year for the cost of improving water quality standards mandated by state and federal laws, he noted, adding that there had been “complaints about quality.”
The current rate is $22 per 1,200 cubic feet of water used per quarter. The rate hike will make it to $33 per 1,200 cubic feet of water.
Adams estimated the average household now pays about $28.40 per quarter; the new rate would make that $41 per quarter.
The proposed rate hike would be a 50.19 percent increase for residential, commercial, governmental, industrial and private fire protection. The Water Department is supported by water users, not general taxation.
Hydrant rental will increase by 54.1 percent. Public fire protection rates, determined by Chapter 69 of the Public Utilities Commission Rules, will increase by $81,784. Town Manager Curtis Lunt said that will bring the cost for the full fiscal year up from $150,000 to $230,000 and will require a special town meeting in the fall to appropriate the additional money.
Materials supporting the proposed rate changes are now available at the Water Department for public inspection. Those having questions or desiring additional information may call Adams at 353-3020 or the administrative director of the PUC at (207) 287-3832.
For additional assistance, people may write to the Public Advocate, State House Station #112, Augusta ME 04333-0112, or call (207) 287-2445.
Customers may petition the PUC for a review of the proposed rate changes. Petitions must be signed by 1,000 customers, or 15 percent of them, whichever number is less, and be filed with the town treasurer by Sept. 1.
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