Riviera Beach City Council members are considering a new water treatment plant that could cost up to $300 million, potentially leading to water and wastewater bill increases for residents. The need for the new plant stems from the aging infrastructure of the current facility, which is nearly 70 years old and in need of replacement. Additionally, rising costs of labor and materials have doubled the initial cost estimates made in 2021. Residents have expressed concerns about both the potential rate increases and the cause of recent water contamination incidents, including the presence of E. coli in the city’s water supply. Council members are still exploring funding options for the project and have not yet determined the exact amount that residents may have to pay. The city’s water and wastewater rates are already set to increase in 2024 and 2025 as part of the financial preparation for the new plant.