Water rate hike approved by the City of Phoenix

PHOENIX (FOX 10) -- The City of Phoenix approved on Wednesday the largest water rate hike in its history.

In a five to three vote, the city council approved a rate hike of 12% over the next two years. City officials say the money will help pay for infrastructure and other improvements to the aging water system.

Under the plan, a 6% increase will go into effect in February, followed by another 6% increase next February.

Depending on water usage, the average customers will see their bills increase by about $2.35 a month, in 2019, and another $2.30 per month, in 2020.