Columbia City Council hosts water rate increase public hearing

A Columbia City Council public hearing will take place in consideration of a proposed 4% increase in revenue from water fees.

Columbia leaders said the increase is necessary to pay for operation and maintenance expenses, maintain cash reserve levels, and ensure debt coverage and payoffs.

The increase will also be used to help pay for a water bond which will be sold this spring.

Water & Light staff are recommending a phased-in water rate increase over the course of 2 years.

Some groups have opposed the water rate increase, like Community Gardening Coalition, explaining that the increase could be devastating to their business. They asked for an exemption back in December.

City Council meets tonight at 7 p.m. to address several other topics as well.

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