Upland staff propose moving sewer, storm drain and trash charges to county tax roll; committee hears concerns

Upland staff on May 6 presented a plan to place residential sewer, storm drain and solid-waste charges on the San Bernardino County property tax roll, consolidating current bimonthly utility invoices into two yearly charges and aiming to reduce delinquencies and administrative costs.

The proposal, presented by public works consultant Chris O'Lanese, would keep rate-setting authority with the City of Upland but collect residential utility charges through the county tax bill beginning July 1 if the City Council approves the administrative change. O'Lanese said the shift would reduce the number of mailed bills from 18 per year to two and "most importantly the city of Upland retains full control over rate setting, any future increases, and the policies that govern utility services." He told the Public Works Committee staff recommended passing estimated administrative savings directly to residents.

Committee members and speakers questioned whether the change would meaningfully reduce delinquency and how the timing of county remittances would affect the city and residents. Resident Mark Walters said he opposed the change, asserting "I vehemently oppose this. There's nothing good to come of this." No formal committee vote was taken; staff will report the discussion to the City Council ahead of a scheduled public hearing.

Why this matters: City staff said delinquent utility balances climbed after state restrictions on water shutoffs (Senate Bill 998) limited the…