Columbia City Council approves water rate increase

Columbia City Council approves water rate increase

The final vote came after hours of public comment during a packed meeting that highlighted deep divisions among residents over affordability, growth, and long-term planning.

Columbia City Council Approves Controversial 150% Water Rate Increase - Radio7Media

The Columbia City Council voted 5-2 Thursday night to raise water rates nearly 150% over the next five years, a move that has sparked public backlash, according to WSMV 4. City leaders say the increase is needed to fund a project allowing more water to be drawn from the Duck River, which advocates warn could be strained by population growth in Maury County. Currently, the average customer pays about $35 a month. Under the new plan, residential c…