FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WOWO): The Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor, Aqua Indiana, Inc. and the city of Fort Wayne have reached an agreement about new sewer rates.

The deal will cause the overall rates for the Aboite Wastwater Division to go up by 23.6 percent. The utility was initially seeking an increase of about 30 percent. They say the rate increase is needed to cover the cost of incoming projects and maintenance.

The proposed increase was met with opposition by area residents and lawmakers.

The deal still needs approval from the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission, which is expected by the end of the year.

RELATED: Settlement: Aqua Indiana rates to increase 23.6%