But they are likely to increase their prices in anticipation of the federally mandated, annual minimum wage increase.
Some Laundromat operators said their business may not be affected by the new CUC water rates because they have their own deep wells.
CUC has increased its water rates by 40 percent as recommended by the Commonwealth Public Utilities Commission’s consultant, Georgetown Consulting Group.
In an interview, CUC Executive Director Antonio Muna said the new water rates will be reflected in the May or June billings.
CUC has yet to publish the new water rates but Muna said they have to implement CPUC’s recommendation.
“That’s as good as done,” he added.
Saipan Ice & Water sales supervisor Nico Flores said they are not likely to increase their prices, but top management will still look into the effect of the new water rates.
He said they have raised their prices in January in anticipation of the new minimum wage increase this May.
Saipan Ice is the distributor of Sparkle Clean bottled water and ice.
Diamond Water supervisor Benjamin Kim told Variety they will “definitely increase our prices or we close our business.”
He also complained about the zoning law that regulates their signage, saying that these strict laws are hurting their business.
“How can we survive?” he asked.
Star Water supervisor Ronnie Bunao said they have a deep well and may stick to their current prices.
But according to Dennis Pacheco, supervisor of Marianas Ice and Water Company, “If CUC raises their water rates then we will also increase our rates.”
Their company distributes water to hotels, Laundromats and residential houses.
Grace Orcajo of Garapan Laundry said they will maintain their current rates as they have their own deep well and generators.
“The increase in water rates by CUC may not affect us,” she said.
Other Laundromat operators are maintaining a “wait and see attitude” until they see the new water billings.
