Milliken Water Bills Nearly Triple After Rate Hike

Households in several communities are facing higher utility costs, though the causes and scale vary. In Milliken, Colorado, residents reported water bills that doubled or nearly tripled after smart-meter installations, while the town’s meter replacement project and the reasons for the increases remain under scrutiny. West Plains, Missouri, is considering combined electric, water, sewer and sanitation increases of about $5 to $7 a month per household to cover operating costs and infrastructure needs, drawing criticism from a resident who said conservation has not prevented rising bills. In Colorado, recent gas and electric rate increases add to broader affordability pressures; some advocates point to assistance programs, while others blame regulatory choices and the transition away from fossil fuels. Meanwhile, despite drought and rising water rates, a recent study found many Phoenix-area water bills remain below the national average.