FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WOWO): The state of Indiana will be holding a public hearing in Fort Wayne later this month over a contentious sewer rate increase request.

Aqua Indiana wants to raise rates for their 13,000 Aboite Township customers by about 30%, saying they need it to make up for almost $28-million in system improvements made since 2010.

The move has prompted complaints from both residents and elected officials, who say the hike is way too much, especially since it also includes a one-time fee of $1,300 for customers hooking up to the system for the first time.

The state’s Office of Utility Consumer Counselor has set a Public Hearing for May 17th at 6pm at the Summit Middle School Cafeteria (4509 Homestead Road).

You can also send in a written complaint at the following address by June 17th:

Consumer Services Staff
Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor
115 W. Washington St., Suite 1500 South
Indianapolis, IN 46204