Water rate hike sought in Red Hook

The Red Hook Town Board heard a request at their Dec. 10 meeting for raising water rates in the town. A public hearing is set for Jan.14.

Hank Van Parys of the water board asked for a 10 percent rate increase — from $33 to $37 for up to 9,000 gallons and from $4 to $4.50 per each 1,000 gallons over 9,000.

Parys said the water board needs to prepare for the future and any major expenses that may come up. His major concern is the aging water tank, which would cost $1.5 million to renovate. Necessary and unexpected maintenance issues, such as water main replacement, leaks and the possible replacement of a water pump, were also mentioned. According to Parys, there is $600,000 in the water board reserve fund and the increase will add an extra $30,000 a year to the fund.

Town Supervisor Sue Crane said that even though the rates were increased two years ago, they are still well below other area rates by 30 to 40 percent.

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