TAMARAC — The city may be looking at a 13 percent increase in water and sewer rates next fall, the first increase in about five years.
City Council members are considering the increase because the utility needs an additional $1 million a year to stay financially healthy.
“Costs don’t stay stagnant,” City Finance Director Mary Blase said. “If rates stay stagnant, you’re going to run into trouble down the line.”
For the average single-family home, the proposed increase would amount to about $5 a month, based on a proposal by the consulting firm of Hartman and Associates of Orlando.
City officials are also considering recommendations for additional fees, including an automatic annual increase of 3 percent designed to keep pace with the needs of the utility.
The city water and sewer system requires more money because of a slowdown in construction and the generally poor economy in Tamarac.
“You’re not having more building like the construction that used to occur years ago,” City Manager John Kelly said. “Operating costs have gone up 12 percent and revenues have gone down 8 percent, so it’s pretty obvious something’s got to give.”
The report also recommends that the city find money to improve the utility system.
The average homeowner’s monthly bill would increase from $30.40 to $35.77, according to the report.
The City Council has scheduled a public hearing on the proposed increase at 2 p.m. today at City Hall, 7525 NW 88th Ave.
Kelly said the increase would go into effect in October if approved.
