Dillsboro residents may be looking at a 26.1% water rate increase this spring.

That's the amount recommended in a rate study on water and sewage by consultant Pat Callahan, Dillsboro Utilities Superintendent Scott Fortner told the town council at its December meeting.

The increase of $7.16 on an average residential use of 4,000 gallons would raise the bill to $34.64 from the current $27.48, he said.