To the editor:

In response to the mayor’s letter about water and sewer rates:

The pamphlet we got from the city, Nov. 1, 2012, about the new higher water and sewer rate increases projected a 14 percent water increase in 2013, 29 percent increase in 2014 and and a 15 percent increase in 2015. The new higher sewer rates were projected at a 14 percent increase in 2013, 23 percent in 2014 and 5 percent in 2015. I thought since the projected increases were for three years, I assumed (I know — never assume anything) after three years when the project was completed and those costs to meet EPA requirements were over, we would go back to seeing our lower rates. What I read stated, “The rates are expected to increase dramatically over the next couple of years to fund major capitol improvements. Rate increases are expected to return to normal inflationary levels after 2015.”

I didn’t realize those dramatically higher projected rates were going to be permanent, and I also thought the new EPA costs were time-limited, lasting only until the water capital improvements were completed.

Anyway, it is easy to throw stones, and I’m not casting blame on anyone here, as the city has to do what it has to do. I was disappointed because I was expecting the rates to go back down. I understand though if it cannot be helped. The bad water Flint, Michigan, has experienced recently shows how important it is to have good water.

Jim Kinsella

Sidney