Buckeye council sets notice of intent for four‑year water and wastewater rate plan; public hearing set for April 7

The City Council voted Feb. 3 to issue a notice of intent to adopt new water and wastewater rates, starting a 60‑day public comment period and scheduling a public hearing for April 7, 2026.

Terry Lowe and a colleague referred to a multi‑year rate study and said the city formed a Water Rates Committee (WRC) composed of residents and staff to review utility operations and recommend changes. Staff described a "gradualism" approach that phases in rate increases over four years to limit sudden impacts on customers while meeting financial guidelines for operating surplus, reserve levels and debt‑service coverage.

Jared, a staff presenter on the rate study, reviewed proposed structure changes and sample bill impacts. He cited a residential example with a $6.62‑per‑month increase as presented in the materials. Jared also described adjustments to the commercial structure designed to reduce very large first‑year increases for high‑water users by shifting some charges from usage tiers into base rates and phasing in additional tiers over subsequent years.

Staff said the draft rate schedule is a ceiling: issuing the notice of intent does not finalize rates, and council retained the ability to reduce the proposed amounts after public comment. Councilman 3 (during discussion) emphasized the point: "We're not adopting rates tonight. We're just saying that in this next period, we can adopt rates up to this maximum." Staff said the rates would technically take effect May 7, 2026 and appear on the next billing cycle (May 13), subject to final council action after the public comment period.

Staff committed to outreach during the 60‑day period, including bill inserts, social media and availability at public events. The council voted to approve the notice of intent by voice vote with no recorded opposition.