VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — No one likes it when bills increase. Rachel Corpuz is no different.
The Virginia Beach mother of three said the potential for an increase in the stormwater utility fee next year would add another burden to her already large list.
"It's hard to pay utility bills and then get the grocery bill the next, trying to get food at the grocery store. It's extremely high. It's putting its weight on. You know, it's hard," she said.
On Tuesday night, Virginia Beach City Council members heard rate increases will likely be necessary to continue funding stormwater management programs.
"Every year the forecast projects between a $4 million and $7 million deficit in the stormwater fund. Which means, ultimately that the stormwater operating fund would be out of fund balance by 2029," Deputy Director of Budget Management Kaitlyn James said.
RELATED: VB council talks rising costs for flood protection, stormwater management, road improvements
One option is a 5.9-cent increase or a $1.80 monthly increase for a single-family home. We are told this option would fund the budget to its current need but not take into account future needs and upgrades.
A second option would see an 8.9-cent increase or a $2.71 monthly increase for single-family homes. That option would take planning for future needs and upgrades into account.
Another Virginia Beach resident, Jeff Coshland, told 13News Now he's hopeful for another less impactful option.
"Minimal increases if possible, right? That's hold where you can. But recognizing we have to increase, we know that's going to happen, but maybe it can be staggered," Coshland said.
Those with the Virginia Beach Public Works Department believe the final stormwater rate increase will fall somewhere between the two proposed options and would only be in effect for the 2026 FY, with the future rate increase being lower and more consistent from 2027 and 2029.