The district wants to raise rates 18% starting in January.

In a press release, the district says the economic downturn, lots of rainfall and the installation of water meters have all contributed to lower water sales. Water use has fallen by 25% in the past year.   

Jennifer Persike is with the Association of California Water Agencies.

She says fixed costs are also going up for water utility companies throughout the state.

"The pipelines, the water quality treatment, all of the things that go into providing water service 24/7, those costs continue whether individual customers may be using less water. So those costs still have to be covered."

If the Carmichael rate increase is approved, an average customer would pay about $81.00 for two months of water.

Tonight's public meeting starts at 7 PM at the district's office, 7837 Fair Oaks Blvd.