Bonney Lake residents can expect slightly higher utility bills next month as changes to the city’s rate structure go into place July 1.

The council in May voted to increase the sewer rates by 10 percent and slightly decrease water rates.

The sewer rates will increase by 10 percent in each of the next three years as well in an attempt to match revenues with the cost of operating the system.

According to city officials, the average customer in Bonney Lake pays about $51 per month for sewers, meaning they can expect an increase of about $5 beginning in July.

But to offset the costs, city officials are expected to pass a reduction of $2.69 per month to the base water rate and adjust down the cost of water consumption during summer months. An additional two cost blocks will also be added to the consumption charges during the summer.

Beginning July 1, the new sewer monthly rate in Bonney Lake is $40.16 for availability and $2.50 per 100 cubic feet (CCF) of water consumption.

The base water costs will drop from $16.69 per month to $14.

For more information on utility rate changes click here.