Local

Public hearings for Aqua North Carolina rates scheduled

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — On Tuesday night, Eyewitness News obtained new information on a water company that wants to raise rates.

Public hearings have been set for Aqua North Carolina customers.

Eyewitness News first investigated the company in May because people in Mint Hill complained their water looked dirty.

Last month, the company said it wants to raise rates by 19 percent because operating expenses are up, and they are investing in more buildings across the state.

In the company's own filings, Eyewitness News found the average residential customer's water bill is $42 worth.

If the increase is approved, an average water bill would go up about $10 a month.

The increase cannot happen without first hearing from the public.

The first hearing in the Charlotte area is Nov. 14 in Newton.

Another hearing is scheduled in Charlotte at the Mecklenburg County Courthouse on Dec. 17.