It is unfortunate that during hard economic times, that the Water Board would once again propose to raise our water rates by 14%. Since 1988, the Water Board has increased rates by an average of 8.56% a year, nearly double the rate of inflation during the same period. The New York City Water Board's mission states that in relation to the rates for water and sewer usage, "The rate structure should provide a reasonably stable and predictable flow of revenue". For years, the Board has wildly raised rates anywhere from zero percent to 24.3%. This is unacceptable and certainly is not "reasonably stable". As with the MTA, the debt the Water Board is taking on will sink this board and soak New Yorker's for years to come. As Public Advocate, I will fight to reform the New York City Water Board and the way it is funded, collects funds and operates. More needs to be done to cut costs, collect outstanding payments and create a system that will give the residents of this city more predictability when it comes to water rates. I urge all residents across the five boroughs to speak out against these rate increases and suggest solutions and alternatives to the Water Board's proposal. Help spead the message by forwarding this petition and SIGN IT TODAY! I promise to have your voice heard.

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