Westminster's Controversial Water Rate Hike Is Approved
WESTMINSTER, Colo. (CBS4) - The City of Westminster approved a controversial plan to raise water rates on Monday night on a 4-1 vote. Resident's bills will now go up 10 percent.
For about 88 percent of the city that means an increase of about $11 a month.
Not everyone is happy about the rate hike.
"The increase that you are proposing is way out of line. The mere fact that there are so many people here tonight, specifically for the water issue, should be a red flag. This should be telling you that hey, maybe something is out of sorts," said one concerned resident.
City officials say the extra money would go toward a $120 million plan for improvement projects.
One city official says the rate increase means large water users will pay their fair share.
"I have a conscience. I am in this role because I have to do what I think is best for the long term health of my city," said Westminster city council member Anita Seitz. "And if it costs me my job on council, I know you said you will recall me, that is a consequence I'm willing to pay."
The changes are expected to take effect in January.