Water rate hikes disgust residents, free water for swimming pool?

The Ellis County Press

ENNIS – Commissioners passed a 4.86 percent rate increase on the city’s water to residents Monday night due to lack of usage.

Residents all around are disgusted.

"Our sewer rates will be increased because we haven’t been flushing enough?" questioned Nelda Hodge, local resident.

According to City Manager Steve Howerton, a water rate increase was needed because not enough citizens used water, resulting in a shortfall in budgeted line items this fiscal year.

As taxpayers are going to be forced to pay an increase in their water, it’s alleged the city manager made a deal with a resident living on 2602 Laneview to use the city fire hydrant to fill up their swimming pool June 2.

Howerton refused to speak with the Press during multiple attempts to reach him.