TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) -- The Tucson City Council has approved the largest water rate increase in recent history.

The average residential water customer who consumes nearly 9,000 gallons a month would see his or her bill increase by about $1.18 - nearly 6 percent.

Heavier users who consume 52,630 gallons or more a month would see their bills increase by 11 percent, or $41.74.

The increase starts July 1 and is expected to net Tucson Water an additional $9.5 million, an 8 percent increase in its budget.

A 3-cent charge per 100 cubic feet of water will be directed to water conservation measures, such as a pilot program to give low-flow toilets to low-income families.

---

Information from: Tucson Citizen, http://www.tucsoncitizen.com

© 2008 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Learn more about our Privacy Policy.