City Council Approves Rate Increases for Water and Sewer

The City Council unanimously adopted resolutions Tuesday night authorizing cost of living increases to Arcadia's water and sewer rates.

In a staff report presented by Public Works Service Director Tom Tait, a proposal was made for an increase of 1.07%, based on the 2010 California Consumer Price Index. As a result, water rates will increase from $1.33/CCF (hundred cubic feet) to $1.34/CCF. Sewer rates will increase from $3.99/unit to $4.03/unit for homeowners (single and multi-family) and increase from $11.93 + $0.12/CCF to $12.06 + $0.12/CCF for commercial structures. The rates will become effective on bills issued after July 1, 2011.

In 2009, City Council approved automatic adjustments to water and sewer rates through 2014 and is.

Despite the increased rates, Tait pointed out that Arcadia maintains the lowest water rates within the San Gabriel Valley and also has one of the lowest sewer rates. (A graphic attached to this article shows how Arcadia's water rates compare to nearby cities.)

In addition, staff proposed capital improvement projects for 2012 including the replacement of more than 1200 water meters, a sprinkler replacement program and the search for additional sources of ground water. In 2009, the San Gabriel Groundwater Basin reached an all-time low for water levels. Tait pointed to ongoing efforts such as visits to area schools by Public Works that hope to further educate the community of better irrigation and conservation techniques.

The master plan for sewer improvements includes preventative maintenance measures and pipe upgrades. The majority of the sewer pipes in the city have been in place since the ’60s which triggered the state to require a Sewer System Management Plan for Arcadia. The state regulations mandate the eliminations of sewer overflow and backups.