For the first time since 2007, Hortonville is increasing its water rates. As residents could see about a $20 increase per quarter, many of them are concerned about the new rates.
Stephanie Williamson owns the Loose Wheel Supper Club in Hortonville, and said increased water rates are a problem for both businesses and homeowners.
"We already have one of the highest rates around in the area to begin with, so to be going up any further it was like, why?" she said.
The answer to Williamson's question is that operating costs have increased since 2007, according to Village Administrator Diane Wessel.
"The water rates are going up because currently the operating expenses and our debt coverage are not matching, we don't have enough revenue coming in," said Wessel said. "So we have to increase our revenue in order to cover those expenses."
Hortonville had to file an application with the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin to increase water rates. The PSC did find the increased rates necessary, but will hold a public hearing before finalizing those rates. Hortonville residents are invited to both give their opinion and ask questions about the increase.
The public hearing is Tuesday, March 8th at 10 a.m. in the Municipal Services Center Board/Court Room in Hortonville.
