Auburn water rates rising

By Katie Stallcup

Published: June 1, 2008

Auburn has raised water rates to promote conservation, according to a statement from the city.

The temporary rates are based on a graduated scale. Most customers won’t see much of a difference on their water bill — an average of less than $1 — but those with “excessive usage” will see a bigger jump, according to a city release. Customers using up to 4,000 gallons a month won’t see any change.

With the area still in a drought, the board hopes to encourage people to reduce water consumption, especially if last summer’s severe drought repeats, City Manager Charlie Duggan said.

Although the city remains under voluntary water restrictions, Duggan said the city has no immediate plans to make them mandatory.

“The hope is that if people can be encouraged to conserve, the rest won’t be needed,” he said. “We hope it’s a step away from mandatory restrictions instead of a step towards them.”

For a link to more information on the rate increase, visit http://www.auburnalabama.org.