City water utility seeks another rate hike

The Madison Water Utility has applied for a third rate hike in four years, according to a report from the Wisconsin State Journal. The increase could add $5 per month to the average bill but also provide a subsidy for the poorest families. The Public Service Commission is being asked to consider the additional $12.3 million for next year for the utility to replace aging pipes and pay down debt. The average household would pay almost $35 a month for water under the proposed rates. However, the utility is proposing a customer assistance program that would provide credits to about 5,540 households earning less than half the median income.