Towns could see water, sewer rate increases
By Turner Walston
Published in News on June 1, 2006 1:51 PM
Residents in Faison and Eureka could soon need to add a little more to their budget for water and sewer bills this year.
Faison officials have included an increase in sewer rates as part of their 2006-07 budget plan, Mayor Elmer Flake said.
Flake said if the budget passes, the baseline rate for sewer and water hookups would increase to $15 -- nearly $7 more than the current $8.95 rate for the first 3,000 gallons per month.
"Our sewer rates have not been increased since 1998," Flake said. "We hate to increase these things, but I and the board agree we don't have a choice."
The sewer rate increase is intended to help cover the cost of a new pump station, scheduled for completion by the end of the month, he said.
But even though they will pay more for sewer and water in Faison, residents will not see a new number on their property tax bills.
Flake said there is no proposed increase in the property tax rate, which currently stands at 53 cents per $100.
Flake and town commissioners will hold a public hearing on the budget on Wednesday, June 7, at 7 p.m. at Town Hall.
In northern Wayne County, Eureka residents would see increases as well, if the proposed budget is passed.
The baseline rate is currently $23.52 for the first 2,000 gallons per month. That charge would increase to $25.02, Town Clerk Reta Chase said.
To help cover fuel costs, Mrs. Chase said the solid waste charge in Eureka will increase from $12 to $13, pending approval of the budget.
Eureka will hold its public hearing on the budget at 7 p.m. on Monday, June 5, Mrs. Chase said.