Residents in Seminole County neighborhood cry foul over proposed water-rate hike

SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. — Opposition has grown to a proposed water-rate hike in Seminole County’s Sanlando Springs neighborhood.

Customers who fear that their water bills could double packed a public hearing  with the Florida Public Service Commission Thursday morning to voice their concerns. The proposed hike could affect several hundred people.

Utilities Inc. officials said residents in the neighborhood have had lower rates than other customers for some time.

"Sanlando customers, you'll probably notice the rates are going up," said John Hoy, President of Utilities Inc. of Florida.

Resident Tom Moscoso told Channel 9 that the amount he pays for water seems adequate.

“There is a possibility that our rates could double,” he said. “When you see increases like that, it definitely affects your pocketbook. It affects maybe not going out to dinner.”

The utility company, which has serviced the area for eight years, said it requested a consolidated rate change to “level the playing field” for its customers statewide after it merged its 12 businesses into a single entity.

A company spokesman said the rate increase would also help with conservation in Florida.

"We are requesting about another $35 million in projects. Two thirds of that is going right here in Seminole County. The majority of that is going to Sanlando," Hoy said.

But Moscoso said he doesn’t think customers should have to pick up the tab.

“Perhaps what they need to do is look at their operation and see where they can cut back rather than try to hit the consumer every time they need a rate hike," he said.

Utilities Inc. said it also filed a petition to increase its water and wastewater rates for customers in Lakeland.

“Maybe we are spoiled. I don't know. But I think what we pay is adequate,” Moscoso said. “The only thing I would support is going to be a gradual increase -- not double.”

The commission will vote on whether to raise the rates on June 6.

Cox Media Group