At its May 17 meeting the Lewiston City Council approved a water rate increase of 23%, 7-0. This is a drastic increase in a very trying time.
The only information provided to the public was a one-page blue sheet of paper from Public Works. Very little information was provided as to the great need for the 23% increase, and no informational Zoom meeting to explain the increase was announced in the information sent out — only a public hearing.
I have no idea why they believe they need an increase of $1,408,832, except it is stated as “in order to meet the Water Division’s annual cash requirement.”
One statement being made is that they did not ask for any increase for eight years, as if this should make me happy. I would have preferred small increases over time and a well-thought-out long-range plan, known by the public, showing how the money will be used.
How did the water district get itself into such a financial crisis? What happened to its long-range planning? Can federal infrastructure money be used for some of its big emergency needs?
This excessive increase will result in some residents seeing an increase of $100-$200 a year; maybe more. The amounts for industries will be much higher, which will be passed on.
This whole process lacked transparency, timely explanations, and information the average person could understand. A 23% increase is excessive and should be reconsidered by the Lewiston City Council.
Crystal Ward, Lewiston
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