Arvada Council reviews water rate increases amid declining federal funding

The City of Arvada Council convened on May 13, 2025, to address critical issues surrounding water infrastructure and utility rate increases. The meeting highlighted the significant decline in federal funding for water and wastewater projects, which has dropped by 77% from 1977 to 2017, according to Food and Water Watch. This reduction has led to increased financial burdens on local governments, including Arvada, as they face the challenge of maintaining and upgrading aging infrastructure.

Council members discussed the implications of deferred maintenance over the past two decades, which has contributed to the necessity for substantial rate increases. The council reviewed three projected scenarios for water rate adjustments, emphasizing the importance of fiscal responsibility while ensuring public health and safety. The scenarios were designed to prevent catastrophic failures in the city’s water, wastewater, and stormwater systems, which could lead to severe public health issues, such as waterborne illnesses.

Council member Marriott clarified that while federal funding has decreased, the majority of funding for Arvada's water projects has historically come from local sources. He noted that the federal contribution to local projects has been minimal, suggesting that the city has always relied primarily on local funding for its water infrastructure.

The council's discussions included a reminder of previous extensive conversations regarding the rate increases and the state of the infrastructure. Members expressed the need to move forward with the agreed-upon plans to avoid potential crises similar to those experienced in other cities, such as Flint, Michigan.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the urgency of addressing Arvada's water infrastructure needs amid declining federal support. The council's commitment to proactive measures aims to ensure the reliability and safety of the city's water systems while navigating the financial challenges posed by increased utility rates. Further discussions and follow-up actions are expected as the council continues to refine its approach to these pressing issues.