Hollywood water and sewer rates are going up

The big picture: The rate hikes will help fund the 25-year Waterworks 2050 plan to replace the city's septic tanks with a centralized sewer service.

• The project begins in 2032 and is expected to cost more than $1 billion.

By the numbers: A typical single-family home's monthly bill will jump from $99 today to $126 this October, $160 in October 2027 and $204 the following October.

• The typical water-only bill would rise from $33 a month today to more than $68 by October 2030.
• A larger household paying $194 today will eventually owe more than $435.

Zoom in: Forty-four percent of Hollywood still relies on septic tanks, according to the city's Department of Public Utilities.

• A third of Broward County's remaining septic tanks are in Hollywood.

What they're saying: Public Utilities Director Vincent Morello said the 25-year plan will modernize utility infrastructure and protect public health and the environment.

The other side: Commissioner Adam Gruber worried the rate increases will significantly impact large families.

• "I know it has to be done," Gruber said. "I just don't feel the way this is being billed to the residents is being done equitable."