DIXFIELD — Selectmen on Monday will hold a public hearing on raising the water rate an estimated 6 to 7 percent.

The hearing will begin at 5:30 p.m. downstairs at Ludden Memorial Library.

Water District Superintendent Jim White told selectmen Feb. 12 that the town needs to consider raising the rate, which he estimated would be 6 to 7 percent.

White said the last water rate increase was in 2008.

Town Manager Carlo Puiia said the average homeowner pays about $70 per quarter, or $280 per year.

The estimated increase would bring that to $340 per year, or a $5 per month hike.

Selectmen will vote on the rate increase July 23 and, if approved, it would be effective Sept. 1.

“It’s never good news when you have to raise any kind of rate, but it’s a necessary step for this department,” Puiia said.