Discussions continue over future water and sewer rate increases in Cape Coral

CAPE CORAL, Fla. —

Cape Coral City Council discussed a proposal Wednesday that could raise water and sewer rates by 5% starting in 2029 to address rising costs and expand city water access.

Saundra Weston, a Cape Coral resident, shared her perspective on the potential rate hike.

“As a resident of the town. Of course, I don't want my sewer bill to go up. And I do appreciate that the City Council appears to actually care about that,” Weston said.

The council reviewed the proposal during today’s meeting. Rates are already set to increase by 11% next year and again in 2028, which will average about $14 more per month for residents. The additional 5% increase discussed today would help cover rising operating costs and fund the utility extension project to connect more homes to city water.

Council member Bill Steinke spoke about the city’s efforts to manage costs for residents.

“I think it speaks volumes to look at this comparison to see that we are trying to do the best we can, that things do get a little bit more expensive, but compared to the other communities around it,” Steinke said.

Wednesday's discussion was preliminary, and the council will need to vote on the plan at a future meeting.

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