Pasadena’s Glenarm Power Plant (Photo – Pasadena Department of Water and Power).
PASADENA – ColoradoBoulevard.net:
Pasadena City Council will hold a public hearing on Monday, March 14, at 5:00 pm via videoconference/teleconference to consider the adoption of proposed water rate increases, adjustments to existing rate structures, and a change in capital improvement charges.
By News Desk
The public is encouraged to participate via videoconference/teleconference and submit public comments. Earlier this week, Pasadena Water and Power (PWP) mailed a public hearing notice to all water customers. The notice includes recommended rate adjustment information as well as details regarding the public hearing.
In a statement to our newsroom, PWP stated the following:
The proposed increases will help cover rising costs for purchasing and treating water, and provide funding for critical improvements to reservoirs, treatment facilities and other water infrastructure. Pending City Council approval, the water rates will increase by an average of 7.1% on April 1, 2022. A second adjustment of 7.2% would take effect on Jan. 1, 2023.
Individual customer bill impacts will vary based on water meter size and amount of water used. PWP’s projected cost estimates show most residential customers will likely see a $3 increase in their monthly bill as of April 1, and an additional $4 monthly increase on Jan. 1. Based on similar modeling, PWP estimates that commercial customers are likely to see a $19 and $20 increase, respectively.
Jeffrey Kightlinger, PWP interim general manager, said:
The proposed water rate adjustments are the result of a number of factors, including our aging infrastructure which is in need of critical and proactive updates. We’re also experiencing severe statewide drought conditions, and that’s impacting both water supply and operational costs.
PWP is a community-owned, not-for-profit utility, and invests revenue generated in the provision of services and infrastructure improvements to serve our customers. This adjustment is necessary to cover increasing costs so that we can continue to deliver water to the high standards that our customers expect and deserve.
Pasadena City Council recently approved a new Water System and Resources Plan that outlines the City’s long-term plans and priorities for securing its water supply and investing in infrastructure, some of which is currently over 100 years old. In addition, California’s ongoing severe drought conditions may affect water supply and conservation efforts in the years to come.
For more information on water rate adjustments and the upcoming public hearing, visit the PWP website.
Source: PWP
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