FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WOWO): Mayor Tom Henry says Aqua Indiana’s proposed 30 percent rate increase is too much.
He is asking the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission to reduce the increased sewer rate, according to the city of Fort Wayne.
Last week the Office of Utility Consumer Counselor recommended the rate be closer to 16 percent, which is what Henry also recommended.
RELATED: State agency: Aqua Indiana’s proposed rate hike too high
“It’s critical for customers of Aqua Indiana to be treated fairly,” Henry said. “We are advocates for lower rates as we continue our efforts to provide sustainable and affordable services for our residents and businesses.”
The city also wants a lower monthly service charge and implement a phasing-in period of any rate increase.
Henry says his recommendation comes from the more than 8,000 Fort Wayne Aqua Indiana customers.
Area manager for Aqua Indiana Jeff Gard says the company hasn’t increased rates since 2010 and needs the increase to pay for recent improvements.
The formal hearing for the rate increase request is in August in Indianapolis.
