Sacramento officials say raising utility rates will help pay for a much needed overhaul of the city's sewer and storm drain system.  

"The undeniable fact is - our infrastructure is old."

That's Dave Brent with Sacramento's Utilities Department. He told city council members last night the city can't afford to wait any longer.

"The warning here is - the less we invest, the more costly it eventually will get."

The recommendation is to raise monthly rates for water by about $3.40 and wastewater by $2.30 beginning next July.

Councilwoman Sandy Sheedy wants city staff to look at financial assistance for some seniors and people with low-incomes.

"Higher rates for some of the people out there are just going to put them over the edge."

The city's Utility Rate Advisory Commission will consider the rate hikes next week.