Harrisburg residents are bracing for a significant financial impact as water and sewer rates are set to soar by over 6% next year. This hike, which follows a 3.7% increase last year, will result in an additional $6.06 for the typical household's monthly water bill. The primary reason behind this adjustment is the urgent need to fund critical infrastructure projects, including essential renovations and repairs at the DeHart Dam in Rush Township. Capital Region Water's CEO, Charlotte Katzenmoyer, underscores the gravity of the situation, emphasizing that the dam's failure could pose a severe threat to lives and infrastructure. The funds will also be directed towards addressing wastewater and sewage issues in the Susquehanna River during stormy weather, as per a legal settlement. With rising costs and the need for immediate improvements, this rate hike is a necessary step to ensure the reliability and safety of the city's water and sewer systems.
