At the recent Utilities Commission meeting, Chestertown Mayor Margo Bailey introduced Ordinance 03-2011, which would raise town water and sewer rates by 10-percent. The new rates would be $29.70 a quarter for water and $29.70 a quarter for sewer for a total of $59.40 a quarter or $19.80 a month. Commercial rates would increase to $59.40 a quarter for water and $59.40 a quarter for sewer for a total of $118.80 a quarter or $39.60 a month. For customers out of town their rates would be two times the in-town rate. If the ordinance passes the new rates will take effect July 1.

Town Utilities Manager Bob Sipes said not only is the cost of chemicals going up, but the cost and frequency to test the towns water is also increasing. Even with the 10-percent increase Town Manager Bill Ingersoll said the town’s rates are still lower than most neighboring towns. He said residents of Sudlersville pay $200 a quarter for their water and sewer while Millington residents pay $160 a quarter. A public hearing on the proposed ordinance is scheduled for June 6 at 7 p.m. in Town Hall.