Proposed Water Rate Hike Could Hurt Ill. Carwashes

A proposed rate hike by Illinois American Water would generate $58.6 million in additional revenue for the utility but could raise water bills by an average of 30 percent. For some companies, including carwashes, paying additional fees could make business more difficult as they weather through the recession.

Lisa Stout, a carwash owner in Alton, Ill., told KTVI television that her October water bill was more than $1,300. The carwash averages about 55 gallons of water per car and used 215,000 gallons during the month. A 30 percent increase would raise a similar bill to nearly $1,700 and add approximately $5,000 a year in additional fees.

Illinois American Water serves approximately 1.2 million people in 126 communities. The utility wants to raise rates in order to invest funds statewide in pumps, pipes, treatment facilities and other infrastructure, the report said.

The Illinois Commerce Commission has been listening to public comments and is expected to make a final decision next spring.

Source:

KTVI: Illinois American Water Proposing $60 Million Rate Hike