Casa Grande Council discusses wastewater billing solutions with Arizona Water Company

Under the bright lights of Casa Grande's city hall, officials gathered to address a pressing issue that has been quietly affecting the community: the city's wastewater billing system. As the meeting unfolded, it became clear that the city's extensive wastewater programs, which consume a significant portion of the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) budget, are facing challenges that could impact residents and the city's financial health.

City representatives highlighted the unique situation in Casa Grande, where Arizona Water serves as the sole water provider. This arrangement complicates the city's ability to enforce payment for wastewater services. Unlike many cities that manage both water and wastewater, Casa Grande cannot simply turn off water service for residents who fail to pay their sewer bills. This limitation has led to a troubling trend: some customers are opting not to pay their sewer bills, knowing that the city lacks the means to cut off their wastewater service.

The discussion centered around a potential solution involving an agreement with Arizona Water, which could help streamline the billing process and improve revenue collection. Officials shared insights from other organizations that have successfully navigated similar agreements, suggesting that collaboration could pave the way for a more effective system.

As the meeting progressed, city leaders sought feedback from the mayor and council on the proposed next steps. The urgency of the situation was palpable, as the financial sustainability of the wastewater programs hangs in the balance. With the community's health and infrastructure at stake, the city is eager to find a resolution that ensures all residents contribute fairly to the services they rely on.

As the session concluded, the path forward remained uncertain, but the commitment to addressing the issue was clear. Casa Grande's leaders are determined to tackle the challenges of wastewater billing, ensuring that the city can continue to provide essential services to its residents.