Mayor Amato will ask Council to Approve Resolution Opposing Increase – Authorizing Attorney to Intervene.
BERKELEY – Mayor Carmen F. Amato, Jr., said today that he strongly opposes Aqua Water’s nearly 19% rate increase. “These are difficult economic times for everyone, for Aqua Water to asking for an 18.7% increase is unconscionable.” Mayor Amato said.
Aqua Water provides potable water to approximately 4,000 businesses and residences in the Bayville section of Berkeley Township.
“I will ask the Township Council to approve a resolution opposing the increase and authorizing our attorney to intervene on behalf of the residents to fight against this increase.” Mayor Amato said.
“Together with the proposed increase of 18.7% in the base monthly rates, they are also seeking an increase in the usage fee from $5.41 per 1,000 gallons to $6.49 per 1,000 gallons. If these increases were to be approved, the average residential customer that uses 5,000 gallons per month, will see their monthly bill rise approximately $ 11.00 per month or $132.00 a year.” Mayor Amato said.
“Council Vice President Keith Buscio said he would be proud to make the motion on the resolution and Councilman John Bacchione has agreed to second the motion.” Mayor Amato said.
The Township has been critical of Aqua Water’s high concentration of iron in recent years. “After many residents contacted the Mayor and Council regarding the quality of water in 2017, we took the extra step and hired an environmental engineer to conduct independent testing of selected sites in Aqua’s local franchise area.
We promise now, to use any resources at our disposal to vigorously fight these proposed rate increases” Mayor Amato said.
