City plans three-year water rate increase averaging $15 monthly for residents

The Carroll County Public Service Authority held a budget meeting on May 19, 2025, where officials discussed proposed rate increases for water services over the next three years. The plan aims to generate additional revenue to maintain the current budget without increasing operational costs.

The proposed increases include an initial rise of $4 on the minimum charge and $1 per thousand gallons in the first year, which is expected to generate approximately $310,000. In the second year, another $4 increase on the minimum charge is suggested, potentially doubling the revenue to around $620,000. By the third year, a smaller increase of $2 on the minimum charge is anticipated, bringing the total revenue generated over the three years to about $715,000.

Officials emphasized that these adjustments are designed to be gradual, avoiding a sudden spike in costs for residents. The average customer would see an increase of approximately $6 per month in the first year, with cumulative costs reaching around $15 by the end of the three-year period. This approach aims to balance the budget while ensuring that the service remains sustainable.

The meeting highlighted the importance of these adjustments in maintaining the financial health of the Public Service Authority, as the proposed increases would still leave the authority with a balance lower than current reserves. The discussions underscored the need for careful planning to manage future operational costs without compromising service quality.