Village board sets new water rates

WATKINS GLEN--The Watkins Glen village board approved an increase in their water rates during their regular meeting Monday, Nov. 16 at the village hall. This is the first water rate increase in the village since 2009. During the Nov. 2 board meeting, board members said this would raise the water rates a minimum of $3 per month.
For water users within the village, the monthly rates for those who use zero to 300 cubic feet or zero to 2,250 gallons will see a minimum charge per month of $12, up from a previous $10. Each additional 100 cubic feet over 300 will see a charge of $3.95, up from $3.75. Residents will pay an additional $5.28 for each 1,000 gallons over 2,250. In addition, the water rent charge shall be increased from $5 per month to $6 per month for village users.
For those located outside of village limits, the monthly rates for those who use zero to 300 cubic feet or zero to 2,250 gallons will see a minimum charge per month of $18, up from $15. Each additional 100 cubic feet over 300 will see a charge of $5.93, up from $5.65. Residents will pay an additional $7.92 for each 1,000 gallons over 2,250. In addition, the water rent charge shall be increased from $6.50 per month to $7.50 per month for such users.
Village Clerk Donna Beardsley said the new local law will take effect Dec. 1, which means residents will not see the effects of the new rates until they receive their bill in January.
In other business:
• The board discussed the possible change of the Italian Fest to the weekend of Aug. 12 to 14. This is to accommodate an earlier NASCAR race scheduled for Aug. 4 through 7. The board said they would not oppose the change.