Thousands of residents of Bartholomew, Jennings and Decatur counties have a chance tonight to weigh in on a water rate hike by Eastern Bartholomew Water Corp.

The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission will be holding a public hearing at 7 p.m. tonight at Taylorsville Elementary School.

The water utility hopes to raise its rates by almost 50 percent to cover bonds so the utility can replace two water treatment facilities that were bought used in the 1970s, as well as other work.

The average home customer would see their water bill increase from about $23 dollars a month to almost $34.

Pete King, attorney for the water utility, says that the rate hike comes after careful consideration by the water company’s board of directors.

King says that the water company’s board of directors are planning for the the future of the utility and safety of their customers.

The town of Hope is one of the water utility’s largest customers and town officials there said they plan to testify against the rate hike.

Those that attend tonight will be able to make their voices heard directly to the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission, which will decide on the rate hike later this summer.

You can also submit comments:

Online via the OUCC’s Website at www.in.gov/oucc/2361.htm

By mail to: Consumer Services Staff, Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor, 115 W. Washington St., Suite 1500 South, Indianapolis, IN 46204

By e-mail to: uccinfo@oucc.IN.gov

By fax to: 317-232-5923

Comments should include the consumer’s name, mailing address, and a reference to “IURC Cause No. 44903.” Written comments the OUCC receives by June 14, 2017 will be filed with the Commission to be included in the case’s formal evidentiary record.

Consumers with questions about submitting written comments may call the OUCC toll-free at 1-888-441-2494.

Case updates are being posted on the OUCC’s website at www.in.gov/oucc/2507.htm .