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TUCSON - Tucson Water may be increasing their water rates starting in July to make up for lost revenue.

According to Sandy Elder, with Tucson Water, the average single family residential customer previously used about 15 Ccf's, now they only use 10.

"The demands are decreasing which is a good thing from a water resources perspective but we haven't lost any of our facilities. We still have the same costs to run our system." Elder continued.

To make up for the lost revenue, they're restructuring their fee system by increasing customers monthly service charge as well as their rate schedule.

The average single family, that uses 10 Ccf's per month, will now pay $2.36 more per month, or $0.44 cents more per month depending on which proposal gets approved.

The two proposals are called "Preferred Alternative," and "Alternative A."

Elder says the change is a sign of the times.

"The change in the rate structure is adjusted to how people are using water today."

Customers we spoke to had mixed opinions.

Nick Ruiz said he doesn't want to see another cost go up.

"I think it's preposterous. I think it's wrong."

Norma Aguilar says she understands.

"I don't care if it goes up as long as we're getting quality water."

To find out more information, there is a meeting tonight from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Woods Memorial Library. If you can't attend, there are 3 more planned.

-Tuesday, May 8, 5:30 -7:30 p.m - Quincie Douglas Library, 1585 E. 36th St.

-Tuesday, May 15, 5:30 -7:30 p.m - Mission Library, 3770 S. Mission Rd.

-Thursday, May 17, 5:30 -7:30 p.m - Miller-Golf Links Library, 9640 E.
Golf Links Rd.

The final hearing is set for Tuesday May 22nd.