KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Citizens in Kalamazoo may see an increase on their water bills if a proposal for water utilities is passed.
During a special meeting on January 13 at the Water Reclamation Plant, City Commissioners reviewed a presentation of the proposed increases.
If passed, Kalamazoo citizens would see an increase of around $4-5 a month for water and wastewater utilities, or around $50-60 a year.
Homes that sit outside the city boundaries would see a smaller increase at around $3 a month, or around $30-40 a year. The numbers for both rates are based on estimates.
The funds generated from the increased rates would be used for various projects over the next five years, such as improving the water treatment plant, building new water towers, and more. City officials say that they will continue the lead pipe replacement process.
Officials say that these projects are crucial in order to ensure clean drinking water for Kalamazoo citizens.
Based on these proposed rates, a new ordinance will be drafted to accommodate various types of consumers. The draft is currently scheduled to be given a first reading at the Kalamazoo City Commission meeting on February 3rd, with action being taken on the 17th.
Officials say that all factors will be considered in the ordinance when it is presented for approval. An increase of around 14% would be seen for the city water system if passed.
