Charlotte-Mecklenburg Water Department Says It Needs To Raise Rates

This week's dry weather means Charlotte lawns will suffer, and you may suffer too when it comes to your water bill.

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Utilities Department has asked the city council to approve an increase in water rates, a move many homeowners like Cherry Nicholson disagree with.

"We have to wash clothes, so we have to watch how we use our water and how we wash our clothes and using our water for cooking and all that stuff. You're basically going to have to cut out something," she said.

If approved, the average bill would increase by about $6.36 per month.

So far the department has put a hiring freeze into place and is looking at other operational cost-cutting changes, still spokeswoman Erin Culbert said not enough money is coming in because so many customers cut their water usage because of the drought.

"Our utility has to meet its budget. If we go into a severe shortfall, we're looking at compromising services we provide, and water and waste water services are very essential needs in our community," Culbert said.

Before the Charlotte City Council decides on increasing the water rates, some members want the utility department to take another look at cutting costs.

"I think they took an easier route and said, 'Let’s just ask for more money,' instead of the difficult expense decisions, and my position was let's ask the expense questions first, and the taxpayers second," said City Councilman John Lassiter.

The city council is scheduled to vote April 7.

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