Keokuk, IA – Keokuk residents could soon see a major hike in their sewer bills.
The city council reviewed a proposal last night that would increase residential and commercial rates by 30% in the upcoming fiscal year and another 27% the following year.
Flow charges for all customers, including industries, would experience similar hikes.
Mayor Dave Gudgel says the city must raise the rates because it is facing a sewer project that is estimated to cost nearly $70,000,000.
He hopes Keokuk's efforts will result in funding and a 30-year window to complete the combined sewer overflow project.
He says Keokuk's rates would remain well below the rates of comparable cities.
The council could vote on the increase during its first meeting in July.
Additional Information
* Keokuk's basic rate would jump from the currently level of $10.74 to $14.00 to $17.75.
* Most Keokuk residents use less than the minimum requirements so they only pay the basic rates.
* The city's rate consultant says Ottumwa is facing $60 basic rates.