Rate Increase Approved
Port Arthur's City Council approved a 7% water rate increase on Tuesday, a step city leaders say is necessary to fund long-delayed infrastructure improvements. The new rate adds $4.93 per month for a customer using 3,000 gallons of water. This comes after a 20% increase was approved last year, compounding the financial pressure on residents.[S1]
Calvin Matthews, the city's water utilities director, explained that the 7% increase is linked to financing major upgrades. He said it allows the water utilities to sell $30 million in bonds, which will primarily go toward capital projects for sewer and water systems. Matthews noted that multiple projects are planned across the city, including work on three wastewater lift stations, new lift stations, and replacement of sewer lines.[S1]
Residents Weigh In
Sheryl Davenport, who lives in Port Arthur, said her water bill is already steep and she anticipates it going up even more. She backed the rate increase provided it brings tangible upgrades to the water system, yet she was concerned about the strain on families already facing growing expenses. Davenport noted that pricier utility bills can be particularly tough on lower-income households as they stretch their budgets for food and other essentials.[S1]
Matthews said he can guarantee that the money will be spent on the planned projects, emphasizing that the city is diligent in getting the best value for citizens. Davenport said she hopes the added cost delivers results, noting that improvements are a necessity in Port Arthur. The rate increase was approved on Tuesday and will soon be reflected in residents' bills.[S1]
