The Columbus Junction City Council is looking to increase water rates for residents.

The city council approved the first reading of an amendment to city code that would include a $3.00 flat fee increase and a $2.00 per additional 1,000 gallon rate. Currently the rate for the first 2,000 gallons of water is $16 and $6.26 per 1,000 gallon after that. The proposed rates would increase those to $19 and $8.26 respectively. For the new rates to go into effect, the council must pass two more readings of the amendment.