Video: Smithville Officials Discuss Possible Water Rate Increase

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SMITHVILLE, Miss. (WCBI) — Smithville residents could be looking at a water rate increase.

City leaders held a public meeting last week with hopes of convincing Public Service Commissioner Brandon Presley a rate increase was necessary to cover Smithville Water Department maintenance fees.

Residents currently cough up $18 for the first 2,000 gallons of water, with an extra $4.50 tacked on for each additional 1,000 gallons. Mayor Gregg Kennedy proposed during the meeting an increase to $19 for the initial 2,000 gallons, and $5 for each 1,000 gallons thereafter.

Kennedy said the city hasn’t seen a water rate increase since 2002, which creates conflict as they try to manage increasing expenses.