Camarillo residents demand reevaluation of proposed water rate hikes during public meeting

Camarillo residents voiced their concerns over rising utility costs during the City Council and Sanitary District meeting on May 14, 2025. The meeting highlighted significant public anxiety regarding proposed rate increases for water and wastewater services, with many residents expressing that the financial burden is becoming increasingly difficult to manage.

Several speakers, including longtime residents, emphasized the strain that the cost of living in Camarillo places on families and individuals, particularly those on fixed incomes. Phyllis Anderson, a resident since 1962, urged the council to reconsider the taxing structure, suggesting that the proposed increases felt like a "done deal" without adequate public input. She called for alternative funding solutions that would not disproportionately impact residents.

Randy Gilbert criticized the council for what he described as misleading communication regarding the rate increases, which could rise by as much as 81% over four years. He argued that the council should explore more cost-effective water management solutions rather than passing the financial burden onto residents. Gilbert also raised concerns about the representation of affected constituents in the decision-making process.

Cheryl Johnson, another resident, echoed calls for more public discussions and transparency regarding the proposed increases. She noted that many community members were unaware of the meeting and the implications of the rate hikes, suggesting that more outreach and engagement could lead to better-informed decisions.

The meeting underscored a growing sentiment among residents that the council must take a more proactive approach in addressing their concerns about utility costs. As discussions continue, community members are advocating for more inclusive dialogue and alternative funding strategies to alleviate the financial pressures facing many households in Camarillo. The council's next steps will be crucial in determining how these concerns will be addressed moving forward.