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DWP Votes To Raise Water Rates For LA Residents

LOS ANGELES (AP) — The Department of Water and Power is raising water rates for Los Angeles customers to help cover costs associated with meeting new federal environmental requirements.

Spokesman Brooks Baker said Wednesday the DWP board unanimously approved a hike that would add about 35 cents a month to the average residential user's bill.

Baker says the increase is needed to meet strict water quality standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency and enforced by the California Department of Public Health.

The Los Angeles City Council must give final approval to any rates changes.

The utility has proposed broader increases, but those hikes are on hold until the City Council names a ratepayer advocate to independently analyze rates.

(© Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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