Posted at 11:30 a.m., Friday, May 25, 2001

O'ahu water rates won't go up

By Robbie Dingeman
Advertiser Staff Writer

Water rates on O'ahu will remain the same for another year, the Honolulu Board of Water Supply decided yesterday.

City deputy water manager Donna Kiyosaki said the board voted not to raise rates, because revenues will cover the cost of operating the island's water system for the year.

O'ahu water customers pay $1.77 per 1,000 gallons for the first 13,000 gallons, then $2.12 per gallon. After 30,000 gallons, the rate goes up to $3.18. The schedule has been in effect since July 1, 1995.

Higher rates were recommended after a study done in 1993, when high construction bids would have made increases necessary.

The board approved a $220.2 million budget that includes $89.7 million for operations, $66.7 million for research and facility improvement and $63.8 million for capital construction. It takes effect July 1.

Upgrades are planned for various communities around O'ahu: Ala Moana, Kalihi, Kaimuki, Waikiki, Punchbowl, Wilhelmina Rise, Pauoa, St. Louis Heights and Palolo.