Medford Raises Water Rates By Eight Percent

The city of Medford is once again raising its water rates to cover a $1.6 million deficit, the Medford Transcript reports. It will be effective immediately.

As a result of an eight-percent rate increase, residents will pay roughly $52 more each year toward their water bill. The rate hike marks the second in less than 24 months.

The water rate for commercial and large residences is also increasing.

Because the city cut down on its water use ahead of the previously announced rate hike in 2014, Medford lost money, resulting in the large deficit. The city must pay $17 million to Massachusetts Water Resource each year, which provides Medford with its water.

In order to avoid a $1.6 million shortfall, the rate hike is being implemented immediately.