Some Shreveport Water Customers Anxious about Prospect of Rates Increasing by 10%
Shreveport, La. – Water Rates Increase Concerns
SHREVEPORT, La. (HERE NEWS) — Starting in April, Shreveport water customers possibly could see a 10% increase in their rates.
“Any added expenses is just a burden on anyone in the city,” one woman said.
Over the past several weeks, Shreveport’s water department hosted meetings throughout the city informing residents of what they can expect if the 10% raise goes into effect.
“The City of Shreveport is trying to fix a problem that should’ve been fixed 30 years ago,” said another woman.
“And now since we’re still under ‘consent decree’ to have clean water by 2026, now the efforts are being put on the backs of taxpayers,” a man said.
While for many, the 10% increase would mean an extra $5 or $10 a month, some residents feel the raise is too much.
“I’m concerned about the water bill going up and the increase. We have some people that can’t pay their water bill now,” yet another woman said.
“We have a 20% population that’s identified that cannot meet this increase, so how are we going to help those citizens?” still another woman asked.
The water rate increase was proposed by Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux to improve the water system. The decision is now up to the City Council.
“I think it’s not the right time to be doing this.”
At their most recent meeting, council members decided to postpone the vote on the 10% increase.
“If the City Council does not approve this rate increase, we will remain out of compliance with our bonds. That closes most of the doors to the city on obtaining revenue from other sources,” the head of Shreveport’s water and sewerage department said.
The City Council is expected to make a final decision when it meets on March 11.
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By April, Shreveport residents may see an increase in their water bills by 10%. The 10% increase would be used to fulfill the commitments that were made for the water and sewer bonds. That would mean an extra $1 for every $10 you owe each month. For instance, you would owe an extra $5 if your monthly bill is $50.
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