The Mahoning County Commissioners were presented with a Jackson-Milton water district rate study Wednesday by Mahoning County Engineer Pat Ginnetti that shows additional funds will be needed to keep the district out of deficit.

The rate study presented was to look at the annual revenues and costs for the nearly 1,400 customers in the northwest townships in Mahoning County. 

According to the preliminary 5-year water rate budget projection, the district needs to raise water rates over the next five years in order to keep the water district financially solvent.

The recommendation is for rates to increase to $10.50 per 1,000 gallons by July 1, $11.34 by 2024, $12.25 in 2025, $13.23 by 2026, and $ 2027, go to $14.29, an 8 percent increase each year for the next five years. 

The study also recommends eliminating the bulk water discount for usage exceeding 30,000 gallons per month.

Commissioners accepted the water study and will vote to review it at its next meeting.