W. L. residents could pay hydrant fees

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - The West Lafayette City Council discussed fire hydrant rental costs during its meeting Tuesday evening.

If passed, Indiana American Water Company ratepayers would be responsible for the fee.

Mayor John Dennis said it would cost about $2.37 extra on residential ratepayer's water bills. Currently, the rental cost of fire hydrants are paid for by West Lafayette with revenue from taxpayers.

Dennis said it would cost the city over $260,000 in 2011. He said the savings could save jobs.

"That money comes out of the general fund. The general fund it the property tax money that we use to hire people to pay for benefits and to pay for some of our basic services. Quite clearly, $267,000 less would have an adverse effect on our general fund. It could possibly affect services," he said.

The council will vote on the hydrant fees during next month's meeting.