Apalachicola residents facing big water and sewer rate increase

 Apalachicola residents and businesses will likely see a big increase in their water and sewer bills in the next budget year.

The city is in default on a 22-year old loan debt of nearly $800,000 leaving the City of Apalachicola little choice but to increase utility rates and sewer fees this fall.

The City is proposing a 13.5% increase in both residential and commercial water and sewer rates and a per-month increase of the existing Sewer User Fees of $18.25 for residential customers and $74 for commercial customers.

If approved, average residential customers who now pay $60 in water and sewer charges and a $10.75 existing sewer fee can now expect their bill to increase to $98.36 to cover both the rate increase plus the additional sewer fee hike.

Commercial customers who now pay $90 for water and sewer can expect their bill to increase to $176.15.

The city said if it doesn't increase rates it could result in the state enforcing their rights through collection remedies including stepping in and taking over the finances of the City.

The issue began in 1995 when the City secured funding from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to make necessary wastewater infrastructure repairs before hitting a period of economic stagnation and a reluctance to impose higher utility rates on residents.

The result was that the City was no longer able to make good on the loan repayment schedule and subsequently fell into default on their loan payments. 

The rate increase has not yet received final approval.

A second budget hearing is scheduled for 6 pm Thursday, August 30.

A final budget vote is scheduled for Tuesday, September 25. 

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