Tennessee American Water Co. executives are feeling out city and county leaders this week about their requested 28 percent rate increase.
Tennessee American President and General Manager John Watson said the company also is speaking with officials representing all “large customers” in the area, including North Georgia.
The company has asked the Tennessee Regulatory Authority for a rate increase of more than 28 percent. If granted, it would add $4.68 to the typical Chattanoogan’s monthly home water bill. TRA has six months to rule on the request.
“This was a recommendation I’m following up on from the last case in 2008,” Watson said. “You want to learn some lessons and do some things that will help.”
When Tennessee American proposed an increase of more than 20 percent in 2008, city and county elected officials joined the Chattanooga Manufacturers Association in opposition. The company eventually was granted a 4.37 percent increase.