A newly adopted ordinance, passed June 9 by the City Council, increases rates for all users, including those living outside city limits. This new ordinance officially raises monthly water rates for residential, commercial, and rural users. The measure aims to help the city keep pace with rising utility and infrastructure costs.

Under the new rate structure: • Residential users will now pay $17.50 for the first 2,000 gallons of water each month, plus $6.18 for every additional 1,000 gallons.

• Commercial us- ers will be charged $24.15 for the first 2,000 gallons, with a $6.18 per 1,000 gallons charge beyond that.

• Rural users, defined as individuals or entities outside city limits using city water, will pay $6.18 per 1,000 gallons with no base rate.

This adjustment reflects both the increased costs of maintaining and treating water, as well as infrastructure costs.

“We understand the importance of replacing water lines, upgrading the water treatment plant and producing a better quality of water for our customers,” Mayor Daniel Tarkington said.

The change comes as municipalities statewide are grappling with aging water systems, higher treatment costs, and compliance with state and federal regulations.

The updated rates will be reflected on the August billing.

“We want to keep water rates low; however, we do understand that due to maintaining quality infrastructure and chemical costs, these adjustments are being made statewide. We know that incremental increases are easier than doing it all at once,” Tarkington said.