Water rate hike goes before county panel

The Sonoma County Water Agency is proposing a 9 percent to 10 percent increase in the rates it charges its customers, the cities and districts from Windsor to San Rafael, citing cost increases and a decrease in the amount of water that is being used.

The Water Advisory Committee, representing the cities and districts, is meeting with the Water Agency on the budget at 9 a.m. Monday. Members are expected to ask for alternative ways to cut costs and forestall the rate increase.

The meeting is at Rohnert Park City Hall.