Sewer and water rates could be going up in the City of Decorah

If you live in the City of Decorah, you could be paying more for water and sewer in the future.

The Decorah City Council Monday night approved the first readings of two ordinances--one which would increase water rates by 2 percent and another which would increase sewer rates 4 percent.

City officials say the water utility has a $10,970 deficit in its annual budget, while the sewer utility has a $31,940 deficit.  The proposed increases would eliminate the current year operating deficits.

City officials say their costs of operating the utilities are rising.  For instance, residential water meters will cost 7 percent more than previously.

The ordinances will require two more readings and approval before going into effect.