If you haven't already heard the news yet the Lawton City Council voted to increase your utility bill by 15% yesterday (06-14-22) afternoon. Here we are once again paying more and getting less, a lot less.

They've raised rates again and again despite saying differently. We're paying almost double for refuse/trash services after getting our cart pick-ups cut in half. Then there's the never-ending "let's tack it on the water bill" adding additional fees, taxes, and other itemized and hidden charges. So once again it's gone up!

According to our City Manager Michael Cleghorn the hike in rates had to be done due to the city's fund balance being so low. These funds help to offset other expenses and are used for emergency purposes.

The vote to increase the utility bill came down to a (5-3) decision and ultimately passed. While the City Council members, at least those who voted for the rate hike and City Manager all stated they understood the impact on citizens, but it has to be done. So how much more can you expect to pay on your monthly bill?

The increase of 15% will cost most people around $12.00 to $15.00 per month. Of course, that all depends on your personal usage and what your current average bill is now. The new rates will go into effect on July 1st (07-01-22). So don't be surprised next month when you get your water bill and the price has gone up.

Great, that's just great! Here we are in record-high inflation which is seeing no end in the immediate future. People are struggling just to keep the bills paid, the household running, and the car filled up and the city does this, perfect! I love too how they keep saying "well we haven't increased it in a while." Which is a half-truth.

While they may not have increased the actual water usage fees on your bill, they've certainly increased everything else that's attached to your utility payment. There are fees upon fees and additional increases thrown in. But hey, this is the first time in a long time the residential water fees have increased. *slow clap*

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