DWP rate hikes approved

Despite last-minute questions over surcharges that will boost customer bills even more, the Los Angeles City Council gave final approval Wednesday to raise residents' water and power rates beginning this summer. Kerry Cavanaugh in the Daily News.

Money from the controversial rate hikes will help pay for upgrades to the city's aging water and electrical systems.

Under the approved plan, water rates will increase 3.1percent July 1 and another 3.1percent July 1, 2009.

Power bills will increase 2.9percent in June, another 2.9percent July 1 and an additional 2.7percent July 1, 2009.

When fully implemented in July 2009, the rates will increase average customer bills by $87 per year.