Troy City Council Questions Proposed Water and Sewer Rate Hikes

The Troy City Council raised concerns during a budget hearing regarding proposed increases to water and sewer rates. The proposed budget includes a 10.1% increase for water rates and a 7.6% increase for sewer rates, amounting to $5.43 and $4.27 per 1,000 gallons, respectively. Mayor Carmella Mantello stated the increases are necessary to cover rising city costs and fund infrastructure upgrades, such as lead pipe replacements. A council member also questioned why a nearly $2.5 million intra-fund transfer to the general fund was not used to offset these rate hikes.

The rate increases are intended to fund necessary infrastructure improvements and account for rising operational costs facing the city. The debate over the rate hike and the use of internal funds highlights municipal budget pressures and the cost of maintaining public utilities.