Nov. 5--Oro Valley residents may see a hike in their water bills soon if the Town Council approves an increase in November.

The council on Oct. 6 approved a notice of intent to increase water fees.

Councilman Bill Garner said he was concerned "we're marching down the path to increased base rates."

Town residents now pay for water under a four-tier billing system with a $13.91 base fee that would grow to $14.19 with council approval.

The town also would bill its customers a few more cents based on how much water they use.

"For the average customer, the rate would go up $2.06 per month," Water Utility Director Philip Saletta said

That is the amount under the preferred recommendation to the council. The amount under an alternative plan is $1.60, he said.

Council policy dictates that water-service fees be revised annually, Saletta said. The practice also serves "to avoid large increases all at once -- we avoid what's called rate shock."

Saletta noted the water utility is a self-sustaining entity that depends on revenue generated by its water service.

The council will hold a public hearing during its Nov. 18 regular 6 p.m. session, when it will consider adopting the new rates. If passed, the rates would take effect in December.

Contact reporter Lourdes Medrano at lmedrano@azstarnet.com or 618-1924.

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