Watch CBS News

After Conserving, Roseville Residents Water Rates Will Rise 15 Percent To Cover Decreased Usage

ROSEVILLE (CBS13) — Roseville residents will have to shell out more for their water bill as the city is raising rates because of the drought.

Residents say they've already cut back on their water use because of the drought, but now the city is saying even with those cuts, they're going to have to raise their rates.

"We've seen a 20 percent reduction [in water use], which is what we requested from our customers," utilities manager Ed Kriz said.

And even though residents comply, they are still going to see an increase in their water bill.

"It's just hard," said resident Gina Smith. "Especially with all of our budgets, and you know, kids, summer food, everything. It's a tight pinch, but we make it work."

The city says its seen a decrease in revenue because customers are conserving water, and their costs have increased, it must implement a temporary 15 percent increase.

"They will still have an overall water bill that's going to be less than what it would be under normal circumstances," Kriz said.

For residents, that means about a $2 increase on their monthly water bill, and most Roseville residents don't seem to mind.

"It's one of the things the city has to do to keep the water supply going the way they need to keep it," said Tony Weatherly. "If that's what we have to do, that's what we have to do.

The city says the increase is temporary, and they encourage residents to continue conserving water.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.