CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Living in Mecklenburg County just got more expensive. People have been conserving so much; the utilities department now has a $20 million shortfall.

City Council approved a 15 percent rate hike Monday night. That's not the only bill you have worry about.

Duke Energy and Piedmont Natural Gas are also asking for more money. As a single mother of three teenagers, Becky Kosinski is brought to tears over the news.

"Oh, I just take it one day at a time, and just hope everything works out," she said.

Here's what customers could be facing in the fall: CMUD bills will increase on average $6 per month.

Duke Energy is asking the state for a $3 increase.

Piedmont Natural Gas is seeking approval for a $4 hike.

Over the course of a year, that's an extra $156 on average.

But the water department says its bill may decrease if the drought lets up even more. Starting in July, the 15 percent increase drops to 14 percent. Maeneen Klein says the rest depends on the weather after July.

"We will reassess our situation further into the new fiscal year and see if other movements are possible," she said.

News of higher monthly bills, on top of skyrocketing gasoline prices, is a real struggle for many people.

“It’s real tough. I 'm telling you I'm about to starve," said Norman Smith after pumping gas in northwest Charlotte.

DISCUSSION:Share Your Thoughts On The Water Rate Hike

LINK: Rates And Fees for Water and Sewer Service

PDF: Charlotte-Mecklenburg Utilities Budget Info/Water Rate Info

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