The rate hike publicized by Baltimore County last week is the first of five yearly rate increases that will increase the average bill by about 40%. Existing water and sewer rates have been increased by 13.9% in an executive order signed on July 1, but also established a timetable rate increases through June of 2023. [1] These increases were put in place to help maintain and replace aging infrastructure throughout the city, construct a new filtration plant at Fullerton, and upgrade current treatment plants.
Water rates are set to increase 10% while sewer will see an increase of 3% every year through 2023. The new timetable would level off at approximately a 6% increase per year. Prior to the increase, the city faced a $33 million operating shortage.[2] More than half of the city’s water and sewer pipes were installed before 1970, meaning they are well over their 50-year life span.[3]
[1] Reutter, Mark. Baltimore County water rates to rise 40% over next five years. 06 07 2018. Web. 18 07 2018.
[2] Reutter, Mark. Baltimore County water rates to rise 40% over next five years. 06 07 2018. Web. 18 07 2018.
[3] Balitmore City Department of Public Works. History of the System. n.d. Web. 21 07 2018.
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