Some Central Maine Residents Will See A Water Rate Increase

Over the last few months we have seen the price of nearly everything increase.  Gas, diesel fuel, electricity, food, building materials...  The list really goes on and on.  Now, some people can add water to that growing list.

According to the KJ, Kennebec Water District customers can expect to see two rate increases over the next year and a half.

The first rate increase of 8% will kick in on July 1st of 2022.  The second 8% increase will kick in on July 1st of 2023.

The rate a customer pays depends on the size of the water pipe.  Most residential customers have a 5/8" meter.  With that size meter, the average family pays about $30 per month for service.  Under the first increase, they'll be paying about $32 per month.  They'll end up paying about $35 per month once the July 2023 increase kicks in.

So, the cost increase for the average family will not be astronomical.

The money raised by the increase will pay for updating infrastructure, the increased maintenance costs, and the construction of a new business center.

The Kennebec Water District serves about 9,000 customers from Waterville, Winslow, Fairfield, Benton, and certain parts of Vassalboro.  The water, which comes from China Lake, flows through about 170 miles of pipe in order to get to those 9,000 customers.

If you want more information, there is going to be a public hearing on the topic on May 18th at 7 PM in the community center at 61 Water St. in Fairfield. The meeting also may be accessed remotely at https://vimeo.com/698996576

The newspaper article explained that customers can expect to get a notice about the rate increase and public hearing in the mail this week.