Proposed rate hike aims to address utility budget shortfall, debt concerns. Proposed rate hike aims to address utility budget shortfall, debt concerns. Proposed rate hike aims to address utility budget shortfall, debt concerns. Residents in Midway could soon see higher water bills as city leaders weigh a proposed rate increase aimed at addressing debt and a budget shortfall. Utility analysts say the city is not generating enough revenue to maintain the $2.1 million water and sewer budget. Earlier this month, representatives from the Georgia Rural Water Association presented findings to the City Council recommending a rate adjustment. “It’s going to be about a 30-dollar increase,” said Bill Powell, an analyst with the association. Powell spoke to city leaders and residents in attendance at Feb. 6 and Feb. 23 city workshop, explaining why the raise is necessary. “At this point, you’re not generating enough revenue to cover your budget,” he said during the Feb. 6 meeting. Powell also explained that the revenue gap also affects the city’s ability to qualify for loans. Lenders typically require municipalities to demonstrate they can repay debt through utility revenue. “You set your rate
