A new jump in utility costs may be on the way for St. Petersburg, Florida, households, with officials weighing what would be the city’s sixth annual increase in a row for core services.
What began as a rate issue has turned into a fight over financing old pipes and other public systems, with debate centered on whether residents, property owners, or developers should carry more of the cost.
Here’s what to know
According to the St. Pete Catalyst, the City Council moved forward with a package of rate increases covering water, wastewater, reclaimed water, sanitation, and stormwater. For a typical single-family household, the combined change would add about 7% to a bill, or around $8 to $10 a month.
Council members are set to revisit the plan at a public hearing Thursday, when a final vote is expected. If it passes, the updated rates would take effect Oct. 1…