You'll soon pay more for water if you live in Erie County

The Erie County Water Authority approved its 2019 budget, which includes a rate hike for water rates.

The cost will increase six centers per 1,000 gallons. This amounts to about $1.20 per quarter, or $4.80 per year for the average residential customer using 80,000 gallons a year. These rates go into effect January 1, 2019.

EWCA Chairman Jerome Schad says this is a "fiscally responsible budget with a most rate increase." The increase meets inflation costs but also goes into funding for infrastructure repairs.

The 2019 budget includes $41.3 million for infrastructure upgrades, including the following:

• $25.5 million for water distribution and transmission mains
• $5 million for a new electrical substation at the Ball Pump STation
• $2.6 million for technical system upgrades
• $2.5 million for new remote radio read water meters
• $2 million for upgrades at Sturgeon Point and Van De Water Treatment Plants
• $500,000 for security enhancements

These measures are part of an overall five-year plan that would cost $181 million.

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