City Plans to Double Area Water Rates
MODESTO
The City Council is getting ready to implement a plan that will raise water rates by more than 100% in Modesto and eight surrounding communities.
The rate hikes will begin as soon as Sept. 1 with a 35% hike, and will be followed by 30% hikes in the next two years, with increases possibly continuing into 2007 and 2008, according to the plan announced Wednesday.
Many of the area’s wells can no longer be used because of contamination. This has led to a decrease in water pressure throughout the area, which includes Salida, Empire, Waterford, Hickman, Grayson and Del Rio, as well as parts of Ceres and Turlock, officials said. The money raised will be used to expand the water treatment system.
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
