(1) Whenever any increase is proposed in the existing rates charged water consumers by a district pursuant to ORS 264.310, the board of commissioners shall first provide for a public hearing on such proposal before any increased rates are ordered into effect.
(2) The public hearing required under subsection (1) of this section shall be held at a place designated by the board after notice thereof has been given by inclusion of a notice of the public hearing in either the water bills or a special mailing sent to consumers by the district during the period of 30 days prior to the date of the hearing.