For many New Yorkers, the cost of everyday essentials like housing, groceries, and utilities can add up quickly. Moving outside the five boroughs might seem like a chance to catch a break, but once you factor in car payments, commuting costs, and other everyday expenses, the savings aren’t always as great as they seem.
Now, water bills in parts of nearby Nassau County could climb by $21 to $35 a month for the average household, and the state wants to hear what residents think before making a decision. The Public Service Commission (PSC) will hold public statement hearings on Wednesday, Nov. 18, Thursday, Nov. 19, and Wednesday, Dec. 2.
The proposed increase comes from Liberty Utilities (New York Water), which filed its rate request on May 29, 2026. With the first hearing coming up next week, customers who want to share their thoughts in person have just a few days to get their plans together.
When and where to speak
- Wednesday, Nov. 18, 12:00 p.m. (in person): Community Room, Merrick Public Library, 2279 Merrick Ave., Merrick, NY 11566.
- Thursday, Nov. 19 (in person).
- Wednesday, Dec. 2 (virtual).
What Liberty is asking for
The company is seeking an additional $24.59 million in annual revenue (21.87%) for Service Area 1 and $13.52 million (30.14%) for Service Area 2. For a household using approximately 8,000 gallons of water per month, the estimated average monthly residential increases would be:
- Merrick: $21.20 a month (36.99%)
- Sea Cliff: $26.89 a month (29.71%)
- Service Area 1 outside New Vernon: $27.77 a month (28.3%)
- New Vernon: $35.47 a month (59.35%)
Your own bill will vary with how much water you use. The figures are averages, not a quote for your address.
What happens next
It’s important to understand that these hearings are not a vote. The PSC can adopt the proposal, reject it or change it, in whole or in part, after it weighs the input from the parties in the case and from the public. Comments from customers become part of what the Commission considers.
If you live in one of the affected areas, it helps to bring a recent bill and say how the increase would affect your household. Short, specific statements tend to be the easiest to follow, whether you speak in person in Merrick or join a virtual session.
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