Sewage rates in Binghamton will rise nearly 40% next year the annual increase for the average family will be $130.80.

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The Binghamton Johnson City Joint Sewage Treatment Plant's budget includes a 58% spending increase for 2009.

The Mayor's office says that will force the city to raise users rates by 39.64% starting January 1st.

To help reduce the financial hardship created by the rate increase, Mayor Matt Ryan wants to waive the late fee for the first billing cycle of 2009.

He must first get approval from City Council.

The Joint Sewage Treatment Plant serves 12 municipalities in Broome County.

It blames chemical costs for the budget increase.