Workshop planned on Norwich proposed water, sewer rate hikes

Norwich – The City Council will hold a public workshop Tuesday to discuss the proposed water and sewer rate increases with officials from Norwich Public Utilities and the Board of Public Utilities Commissioners.

The meeting will be held at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday at NPU headquarters at 16 S. Golden St.

NPU officials announced a proposed 36.7 percent water rate increase and an 11.5 percent sewer rate increase that would take effect July 1 if approved by the utilities’ commissioners. The water increase would cover extensive system upgrades and replacement of aging equipment. The sewer increase would cover increased costs, technology upgrades and maintenance.

Residents and business owners strongly objected to the proposed increases during a public hearing last week, and aldermen suggested a workshop with the City Council to discuss the proposals.