During a recent city council meeting, residents voiced strong concerns regarding proposed increases in water rates and their potential impact on the community. Several speakers highlighted the financial strain these increases could impose on families, particularly those with lower incomes.
One resident, Robin Cunningham, expressed frustration over the planned construction of a new pond, which would require significant water resources to fill, contradicting the city’s drought provisions. Cunningham recalled past experiences in Northglenn, where similar rate hikes led to residents abandoning traditional landscaping, negatively affecting property values.
Janet Sunt, another resident, shared her personal struggles as a disabled individual living on a limited income. She criticized the council for not understanding the hardships faced by low-income families, emphasizing that even small increases in utility bills could be unmanageable for many. Sunt passionately urged council members to reconsider their decisions, stating that they were not adequately representing the needs of the community.
The meeting concluded with a call for more public input, as residents expressed a desire for their voices to be heard in the decision-making process. The discussions underscored a growing tension between city officials and constituents regarding fiscal policies and their implications for community welfare.