Water rates to rise for East Rio Hondo members

RIO HONDO, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Officials at East Rio Hondo Water Supply Corporation say they have been busy trying to pursue alternative sources to the Rio Grande. As they begin seven improvement projects, their members will have to pay a price.

Rio Hondo Water Supply Corporation members will receive a letter in the mail notifying them about increased rates and fees that will be applied to water bills beginning later this year.

Brian Macmanus, general manager of East Rio Hondo Water Supply Corporation, says the water supply and water quality of the Rio Grande is a significant concern. Macmanus explains that river drought is a major issue, as well as an overgrowth of algae blooms.

Macmanus says their staff was able to secure $61 million in grants to fund improvement projects, however, that only covers 62.18% of the total costs. The remaining amount will need to be paid by member fees.

“It’s a significant rate increase," Macmanus said. "We wouldn’t be doing this if we weren’t substantially concerned about the reliability of our future water supply from the Rio Grande River."

Some of the improvement projects include expanding the North Cameron Regional Water Treatment Plant, developing an algae pretreatment system, and safely disposing of surface water solids containing harmful substances.

Macmanus explains that the corporation believes these projects will ensure that a quality water supply is available to all homes and businesses for the foreseeable future.

The new rates will take effect after Nov. 30 of this year and will apply to all billing mailed on or after Dec. 30.

The corporation will hold public meetings to further explain these increases on Nov. 25, Dec. 17, and Jan. 20.

For more information about the rate increase, visit East Rio Hondo Water Supply Corporation.