Chino City officials oppose IEUA's proposed 18% water rate hike over two years

The City of Chino Council convened on March 18, 2025, to address pressing issues concerning water rates and financial management with the Inland Empire Utility Authority (IEUA). The meeting highlighted significant concerns regarding proposed rate increases that could impact the community's budget and quality of life.

The council discussed IEUA's ongoing rate study, which suggests a 9% increase in water rates for both this year and the next, totaling an 18% increase over two years. This proposal raised alarms among council members, particularly regarding the implications for the City of Chino, which is the largest consumer of recycled water in the area. The projected increase in costs for recycled water is estimated to add an additional $360,000 to the city's expenses this year, potentially rising to nearly $400,000 by 2026. These costs would be funded through the general fund, which is allocated for community services such as park irrigation.

Council members expressed their concerns about the necessity of the proposed $90 million bond for capital projects, questioning whether existing funds—totaling approximately $152 million—could be utilized instead. They emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in how these funds are managed, particularly since the city has collected around $22 million since the rate implementation without any reimbursement requests from IEUA.

The council also raised issues regarding a $24 million property tax transfer intended for the early design costs of the Chino Basin program, which has only garnered participation from two agencies. Members questioned the fairness of using property tax funds for a program that does not benefit the City of Chino directly.

In response to these concerns, the council is actively engaging with IEUA's finance director to explore alternatives that could mitigate the proposed rate increases. They are advocating for a more transparent process and are determined to ensure that the interests of Chino residents are prioritized in discussions with IEUA.

The council's discussions reflect a broader commitment to scrutinizing financial decisions that affect the community, with members expressing a desire for more direct representation and accountability from IEUA. As the board prepares to make decisions regarding the rate increases in April, the City of Chino remains focused on advocating for its residents and exploring all possible avenues to manage costs effectively.