Milford residents enjoy some of the lowest water and sewer rates in the region, but that may not be true much longer.

A recent audit by the State Board of Accounts resulted in what Milford Town Council President Doug Ruch referred to as “being raked over the coals” about one issue.

“When we had our exit conference with the auditors, they indicated that utilities should be self-supporting, without any tax money,” Ruch said.

The utilities department covers its day-to-day operations with user fees, but relies on grants, the town’s general fund and the Milford Redevelopment Commission to pay for large outlays, such as the recently replaced and expanded east side lift station.

Utilities superintendent Randy Veach noted at the council meeting Monday local water rates haven not gone up in 11 years. Sewer rates have not been raised in eight years, even though during that time the town has doubled its wastewater treatment capacity.

The economy isn’t back up to par yet, council member Bob Cockburn said, adding, however, a median 3 percent increase payable every two months isn’t very much. Fellow council member Dan Cochran disagreed. “You tell that to people who are on a fixed income or who aren’t working yet,” he said, shaking his head.

Taking Cochran’s opposition into account, Ruch and Cockburn voted in a 2 percent increase. Cochran voted against the measure. A public hearing on the issue will take place at 6 p.m. Monday, Aug. 13.