May 30th, 2025 by WCBC Radio

Allegany County Water customers can expect a water rate increase of over 20% for the coming fiscal year.  The county purchases water from Cumberland who raised purchase rates by 20%.  That raise, coupled with other increases in cost and maintenance means customers may see bills increase up to 26%.  County Administrator Jason Bennett says they don’t want to make money on water bills….

   

“So the 6% is just for us to keep our head above water in operating districts. We try to operate our water and sewer at basically flat – no affect to our general fund. So the idea is we’re only collecting enough to pay our bills there. Not to make a profit and we don’t want to lose money, either.”