New York, NY – The New York City Water Board approved Friday a 12.9% increase to the water rate beginning July 1, but to help defray the cost the board doubled to 2% a proposed discount to customers who pay by direct deposit.
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The rate increase marks the fourth consecutive year of double-digit increases for city water customers. Alan Moss, the board’s chairman, acknowledged in an interview that the rate increase will be tough but he said it was necessary. “We’re unhappy with it,” he said. “But on the other hand, what choice do we have?” Mr. Moss said the city water system was “neglected” for many years.
Mayor Michael Bloomberg also defended the rate hike and the Department of Environmental Protection’s oversight of the water system’s numerous construction projects. The department currently projects the rate hike in July 2011 will be 11.5%
The city is also proposing a 23.2% rate hike to 55 upstate water utilities, which receive New York City water at wholesale rates. Last year, the board approved a 2.4% rate hike to the upstate utilities.
I guess they want us to leave New York
Even with this increase, they are not replacing the city’s 100 year old water system. They need to increase rates to whatever level it takes to get the needed funds. New York water rates are among the loweest of any major city.
If I’m going to stay in NYC I’m going to have to shower once a week and flush the toilet one a day. Didn’t we just have an increase? I’m paying $1000 a year now for water and sewer!
Time to move upstate or philly!
If we as landlords will raise rents we will be called names. So attention all landlords show your tenants the bills.
20 years ago the were no water rates altogether. This was a Giuliani gift. Watch some Yokel write that’s why we’re paying for it now.
Where is our RICH MAYOR?
Why isn’t he sponsoring to pump in 3 or 4 Billion dollars of is own wealth to the city’s water system and become the hero of this century?
Just got my bill Friday, $588 for 3 months! A few years ago it was $375.
Where is David Greenfeild or Steve Lavin or all other big mouths when we nees them
Mayor bloomberg at his best.
I wonder if it reaches a point that its easier to dig a well in the backyard does anybody know the cost and upkeep?
thanks to all who didnt vote
Who should be paying for water/sewer if not the people using the water/sewer?