The Avondale City Council held a public hearing on October 6, 2025, to discuss proposed updates to land use assumptions and an infrastructure improvement plan, which will influence new wastewater development fees. This initiative aims to ensure that new developments contribute to the costs of necessary public infrastructure, such as roads, parks, and water systems, thereby preventing existing residents from bearing the financial burden of growth.

Renee, the finance and budget director, emphasized that the proposed development impact fees are designed to fund essential services and facilities needed to accommodate the city's growth. The updated fees will reflect the costs associated with significant projects, particularly the expansion of the water reclamation facility, which is projected to cost approximately $155 million. This expansion will increase the facility's capacity from 9 million to 12 million gallons per day, addressing the rising demand due to population growth.

The proposed wastewater development fee for a typical single-family residence is set to increase from $3,153 to $10,854, a rise of about $7,700. This adjustment is part of a broader increase in total development impact fees, which would raise the overall cost for new single-family homes from $14,432 to $22,133. The council noted that these fees are necessary to maintain service levels as the city expands.

During the meeting, council members raised concerns about the potential impact of these fee increases on new housing developments. They discussed the importance of balancing the need for infrastructure funding with the desire to attract developers to Avondale. The council also addressed questions regarding the timing of the fee implementation, confirming that the new fees would not take effect until May 9, 2026, allowing for ongoing projects to proceed under the current fee structure.

The council plans to revisit the proposed updates for adoption on November 17, 2025, following stakeholder meetings that have already taken place. These discussions have highlighted the community's concerns and the need for transparency in how development fees are calculated and applied.

As Avondale continues to grow, the council's commitment to ensuring that growth pays for itself remains a central theme in their planning and decision-making processes. The upcoming changes to development fees are a crucial step in managing the city's infrastructure needs while supporting sustainable growth.