SALEM, Ohio - The Salem Utilities Commission has approved of an increase in water prices effective at the beginning of 2022.

Salem Utilities Commission Utilities Superintendent, Don Weingart tells 21 News that there will be a $9 increase on the minimum rate of water (200 cubic feet) and an 11 cent increase on each additional 100 cubic feet.

Currently, the minimum rate for 200 cubic feet of water is $10.30 with a $2.10 charge per extra 100 cubic feet. However, beginning January 1, 2022, the price will go up to $19.30 per 200 cubic feet and $2.22 per each additional 100 cubic feet.

Weingart tells 21 News the reason for the price increase is the Salem Utilities Commission is working on modifications to the water plant. Weingart says this will be the first major improvement to the plant since 1992.

Upgrades to the plant include an upgraded electrical generation system, the replacement of filters, removal of organic matters and the aeration of the Salem Reservoir to reduce the amount of algae in the lake.

Weingart estimates that the total cost for the upgrades will come to $15 million, however this number is not certain at this time, as the project is still in its design phase. Weingart says he estimates that the project will be in the design phase until mid 2022.