NEWS
Citizen challenges council action on water/rate hike
By BARBARA GREEN
The first reading of ordinances that will increase water and wastewater rates an annual average of $100 was approved Tuesday night, but not before several Bowie City Council members explained their reasons for supporting the rates in response to one citizen’s questions.
These rates will apply to all residential classes, not commercial customers.
The water base rate will increase from $19.38 to $21.31, while the sewer base will go from $14.80 to $20. Also in the sewer the per thousand gallon rate will go from $2.57 to $2.75 and there will be a 10,000-gallon cap in sewer.
The annual water increase will total $23.16 and the sewer base will be an annual increase of $62.40.
Based on the average monthly use of 7,000 gallons the per thousand total increase for the year may be $77.50. Combined the average total increase for the year would be $100.77.
Tami Buckmaster, a local accountant, challenged the council on the need for such a high rate increase. Two council members responded to her comments with explanations for the changes.
Read the full story in the weekend News.
A BOIL WATER NOTICE remains in effect for the 800 block of Lively Street. Affected residents should use bottled or boiled water for drinking, cooking, or brushing teeth. If you are impacted by this notice and need bottled water, please call the City’s Emergency Management Coordinator at (940) 977-4941
The heat advisory that has been in place all week continues until 8 p.m. Friday night.
The National Weather Service reports strong high pressure overhead will bring triple digit high temperatures along with heat index readings approaching 110 degrees for much of next week. To reduce risk of heat related illnesses when outdoors, schedule frequent breaks in shaded or air conditioned areas, and stay hydrated.
Make sure to check on your older neighbors to make sure they are staying cool and hydrates, and make sure pets have shade and water.
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