The Birmingham Water Works Board approved a 3.9% rate hike during a meeting Wednesday.

The rate increase adds $1.55 on average to each bill. Board member George Munchus said when you add in sewer increases 3.5% and Alabama Power rate increases, customers will be hit with about $20 extra a month.

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Munchus said it is time to get utilities talking because people are hurting and need help.

The board's general manager said customers affected by overbilling will start getting credits Wednesday. Customers who are owed $50 or more will get a check.