The Chandler City Council has directed staff to prepare residents for a 15% hike of some of their utility bills.

A split Council decided to apply the increase evenly across the board, which will save businesses a lot of money but will mean residents will be paying slightly more.

At a previous work session, the Council was divided 3-3 on how to increase rates. Matt Orlando, Angel Encinas and Jane Poston wanted the blended plan, which would mean residents pay a little less and businesses pay more – in some cases, significantly more.

Mayor Kevin Hartke, Vice Mayor Christine Ellis and Councilwoman Jennifer Hawkins all preferred the across-the-board plan, meaning everyone would pay the same 15% increase.

Councilman OD Harris was not able to attend that meeting. At the Aug. 4 work session, H

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