Excelsior Springs residents will see an increase in water bills beginning Jan. 1.After much review and discussion, the city council unanimously approved a hike to sewer base and consumption fees for users in Excelsior Springs.Through the annual budgeting process, a review of the water and sewer fees was conducted to ensure there are adequate funds to maintain the distribution and collection system and maintain healthy reserves, according to Excelsior Springs Public Works Director Chad Birdsong. It was determined a rate increase was warranted for the sewer fund.The previous water rates for customers living within the city limits included a base rate of $23.60, along with a consumption rate of $11.58 for every 1,000 gallons used. The base rate will be raised to $24.63. Additionally, the consumption rate will now be $12.08 per 1,000 gallons.For users outside the city limits, the prior base rate was $35.40, paired with a consumption rate of $...