Auburn adopts new sewer rates after hearing; protests fall short of majority

The Auburn City Council adopted a resolution on Aug. 12 establishing new sewer service charges and connection fees after a public hearing and presentation of a sewer rate study.

Consultant-supported analysis described infrastructure needs at the wastewater treatment plant and in the collection system, including significant deferred linear-infrastructure repairs. "We are going to need upgrades at our wastewater treatment plant and about $750,000 per year of linear infrastructure work," Public Works Director Mitchell Dean told the council.

Notice and protests: Staff mailed notices to about 4,850 parcels served by the city sewer system. The clerk reported 12 written protests had been received and tallied, which does not constitute a majority protest under Proposition 218 rules; the city attorney explained the majority-protest threshold applies to the total number of parcels/customers.

Council discussion touched on alternative rate-design options, including calculating sewer charges from water-use records; staff said that approach would require data and costs from Placer County Water Agency and likely increase administrative expense. Council members acknowledged the burden on residents, especially those on fixed incomes, but staff said delayed maintenance and state regulatory requirements left the city with limited choices.

Council action: A resolution establishing the new sewer service charge and connection charges was moved, seconded and approved by roll-call vote.

Next steps: The new rates will take effect in the following fiscal year; staff will provide more detailed project timelines and continue outreach about cost drivers.

Sources: Public works staff and rate study presentations and public comment at the Aug. 12 meeting.