Elkins water customers will begin to see higher water rates on bills mailed in late November and will continue to see the higher rates for the next 37 years.
The rate increase is dedicated to covering the $37 million of low-interest loans and bonds that funded the Water System Improvement Project. The new water plant, which houses a new pumping station, new reservoir tank, and backup generators, will produce more and cleaner drinking water.
The Improvement project also ensures the installation of new water lines and new fire hydrants.
“The water treatment plant will be opening in December, but, after the October 16 meter reading, regular customers of the city will a little over a 50 percent increase in their water rates,” said Elkins Operations Assistant Melody Himes.
The rate increase will affect customers in Elkins along with Leadsville and Midland Public Service Districts. The sole purpose of the increase is to cover the monthly payments that the city will make from January 2018 until 2055.
For more information on rate increases, visit the City of Elkins website.
