Water rate hike sparks concerns for local businesses

During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the implications of rising water rates on local businesses and the need for strategic planning to attract new industries. A significant concern was raised regarding a specific company's projected water bill, which could reach approximately $12,000 per month under the new rates. This figure prompted discussions about the current water usage and rates, which were previously set at $22.50 per 1,000 gallons.

The conversation highlighted the potential impact of increased water costs on industries that rely heavily on water, particularly food processing companies. Officials noted that if local water rates are significantly higher than those in neighboring areas, it could deter businesses from establishing operations in the region. The need for a competitive water rate structure was emphasized, with suggestions to develop incentive packages to attract new industries.

One official proposed collaborating with the Joint Development Authority to create an attractive incentive plan that could offset the higher water rates. This would involve benchmarking local rates against those of competing municipalities to ensure that Hazelhurst remains an appealing option for potential businesses.

The meeting concluded with a consensus that further discussions are necessary to explore viable solutions before any final decisions on rate increases are made. The officials expressed a commitment to working together to ensure that the community can support both its residents and prospective industries effectively.