(LaPorte, IN) - There could be an increase in water and sewer fees in LaPorte in the future. A rate study is going to be conducted. The purpose is to see what should be charged to maintain and

improve the systems. Mayor Tom Dermody says he believes the rates are too low compared

to what’s charged in surrounding areas. Dermody said nobody wants to raise anyone’s rates but consumers want reliable water and sewer service and enough money needs to be there to keep up on maintenance and improvements to the systems. The city has been separating sewer and stormwater lines over the years to alleviate flooding in areas with standing water problems.

But, officials say it would cost 80 million dollars to separate the rest of the separated lines.