MIDDLETOWN — City residents will soon have a chance to comment on proposed hikes in their water and sewer bills.

        Middletown City Council members said Tuesday they will hold a public forum June 18 on their suggested hikes in the two city services.

        City administrators have recommended that council OK a 15 percent hike in water rates in 2003 and a 10 percent increase in 2004.

        They also recommended a 5 percent hike in sewer rates for the same two years.

        The proposals would include increased, one-time tap-in fees for both water and sewer hookups. They will be discussed at council's June 18 meeting.

        In other action, council voted for a 60-day moratorium on issuing new residential building permits, certificates for single and multi-family housing.

        Middletown Mayor David Schiavone said the two-month moratorium reflects city officials' desire to raise the overall quality of housing in the Butler County city, especially as it continues to grow in population.

        “We want to increase the standards. We have seen some examples of poor housing in our community,” said Mr. Schiavone.

        The moratorium idea was first discussed last month as part of an effort to improve city zoning codes, he said.

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