Bellevue residents are encouraged to comment on the proposed Utilities budget and rate increases in the 2017-2018 budget at a meeting this Thursday, Oct. 20.

The Utilities Department is proposing a four percent hike across water, sewer and stormwater services as costs go up and infrastructure service is needed.

Public can comment at 6:30 p.m. in room 1E-113 at Bellevue City Hall on Oct. 20.

All interested people are encouraged to attend and provide oral or written comments. Advance comments can be sent to the Environmental Services Commission.

That commission is hosting the meeting. It is a citizen’s advisory board appointed by city council. It advises council on water, wastewater, storm, surface water and garbage programs in planning, budget and rates, capital improvement projects contracts and policies.