Anyone else get a surprise when they opened their water/sewer bill? Mine nearly doubled.

It took me back to a conversation with a friend about selling the sewer system to the water company. He warned, “Eventually, they’ll charge us based on usage.” I responded, “How are they going to do that? Are they going to dig up everyone’s property and install meters in the sewer lines?”

Well, my friend, you were right. I noticed that my sewer charges are now based on water usage. The assumption is that the amount of fresh water coming into your home is roughly equal to the amount of wastewater going out through the sewer.

What about water used for flowers, washing the car or gallons of fresh water I take to camp? That water never enters the sewer system. Also, when I recycle my drinking water, I don’t always use my sewer line. Water in doesn’t always equal sewage out.

When I see the improvements and projects happening in Butler Township and Butler city, it’s exciting to see investment in our community. I want our area to continue improving and growing. Keep up the good work, Butler Township and Butler city.

For me, an extra $30 a month for sewer service is something I can manage. My concern is for already struggling families and elderly residents living on fixed incomes. Maybe the biggest lesson is one I should have learned long ago: Nothing is free. Improvements, infrastructure and better services must be paid for somehow.

Matt Friel,

Butler