Wrangell Sentinel -

The borough assembly has approved a 30% boost to water rates effective May 1 instead of a 21% rate hike with additional smaller, staggered increases until 2026 originally suggested by staff.

The assembly approved the increase April 26 after it postponed a decision on the 21% rate increase at its March 22 meeting. Several assembly members including Patty Gilbert said they had wanted to hear more public comment on the issue.

At the April 26 meeting where the 30% increase was approved, no one from the public showed up to speak on the issue.

Assemblymember David Powell, who had amended the origina...