Global Water tells Sahuarita council final decision reached on Farmers Water rate case; phased increases begin May 1

Eric Birquette, a representative of Global Water Resources, told the Town of Sahuarita council that the Arizona Corporation Commission on April 22 adopted a settlement agreement in the Farmers Water Company rate case by a 5-0 vote, and that the approved rate changes will be phased in across three installments.

Birquette said Global Water acquired Farmers Water Company in January 2023 and that current rates were based on 2017 costs; inflation for water utilities since February 2017 was "approximately 25%" according to his presentation. He said the rate case triggers a detailed audit by the Arizona Corporation Commission and that the commission adopted the settlement unanimously.

Timing and amounts: Birquette told the council the three installments will take effect May 1, 2025; Nov. 1, 2025; and May 1, 2026. He provided an example for an average median residential customer who uses about 3,500 gallons per month: the current bill of $15.48 would rise by $1.32 in the first phase, $2.90 in the second phase, and $2.66 in the third phase, for a total increase of about $6.84 per month for an average user.

Birquette said the company wanted the town to be aware of the schedule in case residents call with questions. "So that's why I just wanted to update everyone so they're aware," he said.

No council action was taken; the presentation was informational. Council members thanked Birquette for the notice and said staff and the town office should be prepared to answer resident inquiries as rate changes begin.

What residents should know: the approved settlement will be implemented in three phases over 12 months; the Arizona Corporation Commission's process included audits and public meetings. Birquette said the final open meeting before the commission occurred April 22 and that the settlement was adopted 5-0.