Sewer rates will officially go up by about $100 a year over three years in Hermitage.

Wednesday, city commissioners adopted two ordinances that raise sewer rental fees about 44 percent for the average residential user.

"With a gun to my head, I vote yes," said Commissioner James "Pat" White, referring to the state Department of Environmental Protection's demand that the city correct violations.

"I agree with that," said Commissioner Joseph A. Augustine.

The city was told by DEP that if it did not correct problems, especially deterioration that is allowing too much groundwater into sewer pipes, overwhelming the treatment plant off Broadway, the city could face large fines and a ban on new connections.

DEP issued violations July 15.

But several residents disagreed with the rate hikes.

"If you think you have delinquency problems now, just wait," said Steve Lysohir of Lillian Drive. Hermitage.

The three years of increases are supposed to cover most of a $13 million bond needed to cover the repairs.