Leaders in Prince George, Hopewell speak out about proposed water rate hike

HOPEWELL, Va. (WWBT) - Leaders in the City of Hopewell and Prince George County announced they’re intervening in a case to oppose a proposed water rate increase.

In November, Virginia American Water Company filed a request with the State Corporation Commission to raise the water rate, which would make average water bills go up by nearly 30 percent.

“This marks the fourth significant rate increase request in the past eight years,” said Prince George County in a press release. “If approved, average water bills for affected County residents would be nearly double the statewide average.”

Virginia American Water Company serves 350,000 people in Virginia, including 9,300 people in Hopewell, parts of Prince George County and Fort Lee.

Hopewell Mayor Johnny Partin is encouraging people to speak out about the proposed rate hike.

“Access to affordable water service is critically important to our residents and businesses,” said Mayor Partin in a press release sent out on Friday. “The City of Hopewell is committed to advocating for fair and reasonable rates, and we strongly encourage customers to make their voices heard during this public review process.”

Leaders are encouraging residents to share their thoughts about the proposal by submitting written comments online through the State Corporation Commission’s website before the June 3 deadline.

A public hearing on the proposed water rate hike will also be held on June 10 at 10 a.m. in Richmond.

For more details about the proposal, click here.