Newton County Water and Sewerage Authority customers should expect to see their monthly bill increase almost $1.50. The increase will be used to bring the water system up to regulatory requirements, replace worn out equipment and combat the increased costs of purchasing water.

For the average household that consumes 5,000 gallons of water per month, the monthly increase will be $1.43. For customers receiving water and wastewater service, the monthly increase will be $3.79 based on the same usage.

"Our employees have done a commendable job of tightening the belt every where possible within our organization," said NCWSA Executive Director Mike Hopkins. "But there are costs that keep rising despite our efforts, and protecting our community's health and safety requires that we cover those costs."

The new rates will be implemented beginning July 1.