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Council approves sewer rate study purchase order increase; public asked for clarification
Summary
The council approved an amendment to increase a purchase order for a sewer rate study and directed that future rate options include public outreach and clear scopes; council and commenters urged transparency about potential rate impacts.
The Cerritos City Council approved an amendment to the consent calendar that added a purchase order increase to fund a sewer master plan and rate study, including direction that staff provide an itemized scope and public engagement strategy.
What happened: Council removed item 7D from the consent calendar for public comment, heard questions from residents who asked for an itemized scope, disclosure of the urgency, and an explanation of how rate projections would be developed. After public comment and council discussion, the council voted 5–0 to approve the amendment to add the sewer rate study purchase order and proceed with the study.
Why it matters: Sewer and water rates are administered as enterprise services and changes can affect monthly bills for households and businesses. Residents asked for transparency on how any future increases would be calculated and whether public workshops would be planned.
Details and follow-up - Public commenters requested an itemized scope for the roughly $83,000 purchase order and asked whether the sewer master plan step had been completed or deferred. A resident emphasized the need for a comprehensive infrastructure plan before committing large contracts. - Councilmember Sophia Seay noted staff’s plan to work with a consultant and that typical water-rate adjustments are phased over multiple years; staff committed to returning with options and public outreach. - Staff and councilmembers clarified that the study will produce rate scenarios and that any actual rate changes would follow public notifications, public hearings, and statutory steps for enterprise funds.
Formal action - Motion to approve the consent calendar adjustment to add the sewer rate study purchase order and related procurement: passed 5–0.
Ending: Staff will return with an itemized scope, community engagement plan and recommended rate options for council consideration; residents are expected to be invited to workshops and hearings before any rates change.
