A higher flat fee on their sewer and water bills will soon be seen by the residents of Kalona. The Kalona City Council passed the rate increase after holding a public hearing last week. The flat fee for sewer will rise 37 cents to $12.47 a month, and water will increase 34 cents to $11.64 a month. Residents will see a total jump of 71 cents per month, and $8.52 per year. The usage per 1,000 gallon rate will not be affected by this change. The council agreed to waive the final reading as they, along with Mayor Ken Herington and City Administrator Ryan Schlabaugh, have not heard any opposition to the increase. The ordinance is set to go into effect in July.