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Republic officials explain why local water bills rose, cite wastewater plant and pump costs
Summary
City staff told residents at the May meeting that past referendum results and the location of the city's wastewater plant have required larger pump systems and multi-year rate increases to pay for needed upgrades and compliance work.
City staff and a resident discussed Republic's recent water-rate increases during public comment at the May 18 city council meeting, with staff saying the city's wastewater system configuration and a required compliance program drove much of the cost.
The discussion matters because the city has raised rates over multiple years and residents asked for a clear explanation of why Republic's bills are higher than nearby communities.
Janie Combs, of 406 West Barcelona, asked, "Why is Republic's water so much more expensive than surrounding areas?" David Cameron, a city staff member, replied that a string of citizen referendums in 1997 prevented…
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