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Clearlake Oaks County Water Company proposes 25.6% rate increase; Prop. 218 protest hearing set for June 18
Summary
The Clearlake Oaks County Water Company notified customers of a proposed 25.6% increase to combined water and sewer bills effective July 1; under Proposition 218 a written protest process is required and a hearing is set for June 18 at 10 a.m.
The Clearlake Oaks County Water Company notified ratepayers at the ERTH District 3 meeting on May 6 of a proposed increase in combined water and sewer rates.
According to materials referenced by ERTH staff, the company is proposing a 25.6% increase to the combined monthly bill, raising it from $129.11 to $162.09 on July 1, with additional scheduled increases through 2030 that would bring the combined monthly charge to $207.63. ERTH said the company completed a Wastewater Financial Plan and will post a Water Cost of Service report on its website.
Under Proposition 218, customers may file a written protest prior to 10 a.m. on June 18; protests must be mailed or delivered to the company, include the protester’s name, address and a signed statement of opposition. ERTH emphasized that oral comments at the hearing do not count toward the protest unless accompanied by a qualifying written protest. If a majority (50% plus one) of affected property owners file protests, the increase will not pass.
Board Members Holly Harris and Sterling Wellman offered to arrange a meeting between the water company and ratepayers to answer questions before the protest deadline. ERTH encouraged ratepayers to review the posted financial materials and to follow the instructions on how to submit a valid written protest.
Next steps: The Prop. 218 protest hearing is scheduled for June 18 at 10 a.m. at the Water Company; the Water Cost of Service report will be posted for public review.
