Sewer, water rate hikes proposed

GAINESVILLE - Gainesville city officials are considering an increase in water and sewer rates.

Public Utilities Director Kelly Randall confirmed Friday that the proposed increases amount to 3.5 percent for all city water customers, both inside and outside the city limits, and 2.5 percent for sewer customers.

If approved by the city council, the new rate structure would take effect Jan. 1, 2014, according to Randall.

It is not uncommon for rates to increase the first of each year for any number of reasons, including the cost of providing the services. (See earlier stories. Links below.)

One of the major expenses facing the public utilities department in the coming months is the relocation of utility lines for a number of road projects, including a new Clarks Bridge and the widening of Friendship Road.