Covina : Water Rates Increased

The City Council has approved a water-rate structure increasing rates by an average of 18%. The increase is needed, officials said, to offset a projected $315,320 water utility operating loss, to eliminate cost breaks for large-volume users and to charge customers who live at higher elevations with the greater pumping costs.

Officials also want to increase the reserve fund, which is expected to be depleted to help pay for construction of a reservoir for the city-operated utility.

Bimonthly bills for homeowners who currently pay an average of $23.15 will increase about 10% to $25.48. Differentials for customers who live outside the city will be dropped. The new rates are effective immediately.