I am disgusted by the recent decision by the Lewiston City Council to increase the water rates for residents of Country Lane Estates by 35 percent, while most other single-family residences in town are going to increase a maximum of 18 percent.

The city manager and council’s argument – that the 35 percent increase is justified because residents of the mobile home community pay less per gallon than other single-family residences – makes no sense at all, because the water infrastructure in the community is maintained by the community owner. The city does not have to perform any maintenance on the water lines or meters, so it only makes sense that the rate being charged is significantly less.

That fact was obviously taken into consideration when water rates were initially established. I feel this is an irresponsible decision, in which the majority of the council is discriminating against the residents of mobile home communities by increasing their water rates twice as much as for residents of single-family homes.

I also cannot understand why it appears the amount water rates would have to increase to fund new water towers and other water projects was not taken into consideration prior to investment in these projects.

Between this issue, and the recent stormwater runoff fees that have greatly increased the costs of doing business in the city, it really makes me question the foresight of the current city leadership.

Peter Hinkley, Auburn