Dunkirk City Lawmakers Approve Water Rate Increases in 3-2 Vote

The City of Dunkirk will be charging more for its water services for the first time in several years. On Tuesday, after a lengthy discussion, the Common Council passed a local law in a 3-2 vote to change the city's water billing structure, including the elimination of the declining block rate. The changes will take effect on January 1st. First Ward Councilwoman Natalie Luczkowiak, who provided one of the two "no" votes, expressed concern over seniors and families being "stretched thin"...

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Fourth Ward Councilman Mike Civiletto also voted against the law. DPW Director Randy Woodbury says the city has lost millions of dollars by not adjusting water rates annually to match inflation over the past 10 years...

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Woodbury adds that the city's water rates will remain the lowest in the north county. Under the local law, city water customers will pay a $30 monthly base rate for up to 3,000 gallons, plus $5 for every additional 1,000 gallons. Dunkirk water customers outside the city will pay $45 monthly for up to 3,000 gallons, plus $8.75 for every additional 1,000 gallons.

Tuesday's passage of the local law followed a public hearing held on September 15th; no one spoke during that hearing.

File photo; audio from Dunkirk Access