ST. LOUIS – The Missouri American Water Company staff is preparing recommendations for rate adjustments due early December following public feedback in July.

On July 1, Missouri American Water Company filed rate cases with the Missouri Public Service Commission, seeking a water and sewer rate increase that could push annual customer bills up nearly 30 percent. The initial proposal asked for a 40 percent raise, but public feedback led the board to reduce the requested increase.

As part of the adjustment process, officials are holding public hearings to gather community input, including a preliminary Q&A session as well as a formal hearing where residents can submit official statements.

During last week’s and Tuesday night’s hearings, many residents expressed frustration over high costs and what they view as broken promises.

Advanced meter infrastructure (AMI) meters, mandated for installation, were highlighted as a financial burden that residents argue offers no savings to them. Many residents, particularly those on fixed incomes, voiced concern about MAWC’s monopoly in the area, feeling they have little recourse if bills rise sharply.

Community members also questioned the company’s growth strategy, arguing that expansion seems to drive rates up for existing customers.

There were calls for the company president to consider a pay cut as well as to improve customer communication—one customer noted a two-year struggle to resolve billing issues. MAWC’s president acknowledged the criticism, stating, “This is not the customer service we strive for.”

The next and final hearing on Wednesday night in Jefferson City will give residents one last opportunity to voice their opinions before the commission reaches a decision.