Council directs El Paso Water to hold eight district meetings on proposed budget and rates

El Paso City Council voted unanimously on Dec. 16 to direct El Paso Water Utilities to schedule eight district community meetings — one per council district — between now and Jan. 13, 2026, to explain the proposed utility budget and any associated rate adjustments and to gather public feedback before the Jan. 14 Public Service Board rate action.

John Blue of El Paso Water told council that staff had earlier planned at least four meetings but "we think we've got the logistics all worked out to, to go ahead and do eight meetings." Brian Morris, chair of the Public Service Board, told council the board supported the request and said staff had been working on affordability options, including rate schedules for low water users. "We would love to have 0 rate increases, but it is very expensive to own and maintain and operate water utility service," Morris said.

Council members emphasized timing, accessibility and outreach. Representatives asked staff to prioritize evening locations and to ensure meetings are geographically distributed so residents across the city can attend. Renee Leon of El Paso Water confirmed staff were coordinating possible double‑evening events in different locations and said contact information and signage would be used to help notify the public.

Public commenters raised concerns about outreach and equity. Miss Osment said some residents may not travel across town for meetings and urged the utility to place meetings in accessible locations for all neighborhoods, citing segregation and poverty disparities in the city.

Council also asked staff to coordinate meeting dates and communications with council offices so members can assist outreach. The council’s motion to direct El Paso Water passed unanimously, and staff said they will return with dates and logistics for the meetings.