Evansville residents and businesses can expect an increase in water bills next month. WNIN’s John Gibson has the update:
The Evansville Water and Sewer Utility will implement the next phase of water rate increases that were approved by the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission.
The utility says an average residential customer using 5,000 gallons of water per month will see the water portion of their bill increase from just over $50 to about $53.
It’s part of five-year plan of water rate hikes that will continue through 2026.
Officials say the rate increases are needed to pay for the construction of a new water treatment facility to replace the utility’s aging plant.
Part of the current facility has been in operation for more than 125 years and officials say it’s nearing the end of its useful life.
EWSU Executive Director Vic Kelson says he understands utility rates are a challenge for a significant segment of the community.
Kelson says he has asked his staff to evaluate proposals that would enhance a utility bill assistance program for qualifying customers.