The City of Algood’s water and sewer rates increased to begin the new fiscal year. A nine percent increase went into effect July 1.
City Administrator Keith Morrison said since Cookeville sells water to Algood, when Cookeville’s rates increase so must Algood’s.
“As time goes on they have to increase our rates to cover making the water, keeping it safe,” Morrison said. “We have to do the same, so we pass on the rate increase, and of course you have to maintain positive gains on it so we make sure we are not in the negative.”
Morrison said the minimum water and sewer combined bill will increase from $22.46 to 25.16. He said this is part of a five year rate increase plan to fund future expenses.
“I think a lot of it is just increase in costs and materials to produce the water, and of course maintenance on the system,” Morrison said. “Each system has to keep up water plant lines, pumps, things that are in there. As they deteriorate over time you have to gradually increase rates to pay for replacements and keep systems running. Of course, as we all know, things aren’t getting any cheaper.”
