Another Price Increase

Gas prices are finally coming down and the summer air conditioning season is almost over. But just when I thought I could breathe a sigh of financial relief, our local utility authority announced a proposed 2006-07 budget that calls for an 11.5% increase in water and sewer charges. 

The authority claims that the additional money is needed for expansion in high growth areas, rising operating costs (insurance, electricity, and sludge disposal), a wastewater recycling program, and odor control equipment for wastewater facilities.  According to the executive director of the utility, "the pace of growth has stretched every facet of the operation" and "renewal and replacement of our older systems have become more of a financial burden each year". 

The pace of rising prices has stretched every facet of our family budget and replacement of older household goods is becoming more of a financial burden each year.  Where's my rate increase?