New Cumberland Council will be holding its final vote Monday on proposed increases to the city’s water and sewer rates.

A public hearing will be held as part of council’s regular meeting, set to begin at 5 p.m. Monday, with the agenda also to include the second – and last vote – on the rate increases.

We aren’t taking a stance on whether the rates should be increased. Unfortunately, that often is the only option for a community in order to make improvements to their utility system, or cover the costs of operations.

We are, though, encouraging residents to let city council know where they stand.

The crux of the increases include raising water rates from a minimum monthly billing of $24.88 to $32.34 per month, with a rate for 1,000 gallons going from $12.44 to $16.17. The resale rate for water will go from $3.05 per 1,000 gallons to $3.55 per 1,000 gallons, with a leak adjustment increasing by $1 per 1,000 gallons.

Sewer rates will go from a minimum of $35.42 per month to $41.80 per month, with a charge of $20.90 for every additional 1,000 gallons beyond. Bulk sewage treatment rates will go from $3.50 per 1,000 gallons to $4 per 1,000 gallons, with the leak adjustment rate changed from $2.25 per 1,000 gallons to $3.25 per 1,000 gallons.

Costs are increasing for everyone, and we’re sure New Cumberland wouldn’t make these changes if it weren’t necessary, but it’s important for the citizens to have a voice in the process.

Whether you’re for the raises, against them, or just want to learn more about the proposal, we encourage residents of New Cumberland to attend the meeting and be a part of the process.