PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) - Rhode Island’s state treasurer says a planned sewer project could “push thousands of people into poverty” over higher sewer rates.
General Treasurer Seth Magaziner tells WPRI-TV the final phase of the Combined Sewer Overflow Abatement Project is project to cost $779 million.
Narragansett Bay Commission documents show the average sewer bill will rise 23 percent to help pay for the project, from $480 a year in 2016 to $588 by 2025.
Commission Executive Director Laurie Horridge says they are looking for ways to mitigate costs for ratepayers, including applying for a $251 million low-interest federal loan.
Magaziner says he filed a motion with the state Public Utilities to review the rate proposal. He says he hopes the two agencies can develop a plan to lower rates by May or June.
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