Belize Water Services (BWS) has initiated a public consultation process to discuss a proposed 20% increase in water tariffs, marking its first review in a decade. The company argues that the hike is essential to sustain operations and finance critical infrastructure upgrades. Without the increase, BWS claims it cannot maintain service quality or meet future demands. The proposed rates, if approved, are set to take effect in April 2026. Prime Minister John Briceño acknowledged the necessity of the adjustment, citing BWS’s significant capital investment of $130 million and its marginal profitability since its last tariff increase in 2015. The public consultation, scheduled for Friday night in Belize City, aims to provide transparency and gather community feedback on the proposal.