The first reading increasing the usage rates for water and sewer, as well as garbage, in the City of Washington was approved by the city council this week. The increases are for five percent. Counilman Russ Zieglowsky said he doesn’t like having to increase the rates but knows there is a lot of work to be done. He shared he’s heard from constituents that they support it so that it helps improve the water in town.

City Administrator Brent Hinson added there are areas in town where water pressure is lower than it should be, especially near the middle school and elementary schools for fire flow. A second and third reading will be held before the rates are adopted.

Current rates – minimum, 100, 200:
water – $17, $20.48, $23.96
sewer – $30, $33.47, $36.94
garbage – $6, bag fee $1.75, annual sticker $85

New rates – minimum, 100, 200:
water – $17, $20.64, $24.30
sewer – $30, $33.64, $37.28
garbage – $6.40, bag fee $1.85, annual sticker $87.50