Mountain Water Asks for a Rate Increase [AUDIO]

Mountain Water Company has filed an application with the Montana Public Service Commission to increase rates for water service to its Missoula customers by just over 5%, or $919,100. The company's current rates are based on providing service in 2009, while the new rate filing is based upon the cost of providing service in 2011.

Mountain Line President John Kappes says increases in operating costs will be about 39% of the increase, while the effects of weather and customer usage patters  amounts to about 61%. Kappes says the increase will all the company to provide quality water service to conform with federal and state drinking water standards.

Mountain Water President John Kappes