Quartzsite council authorizes water and wastewater rate study; contract amount disclosed

The Town of Quartzsite authorized the town manager to sign a contract with Willdan to perform a statutorily required water and wastewater rate study, with a contract amount discussed in public as $33,000.

Town staff explained the study is required before the town may change volumetric rates and that the contractor will analyze five years of rate performance, capital needs, and growth projections to recommend a rate structure. Willdan's Dan Jackson was named as the primary analyst who will conduct the review.

Members of the public and council asked about cost, scope and timing. A resident, Perry Cochran, asked whether a price appeared on the agenda; staff said the contract proposed is for $33,000. Residents also asked whether the study considers expanded infrastructure and growth; staff and the consultant said those factors are part of the work and that public hearings and council review will follow before any rates take effect.

Town staff addressed concerns about the town's water supply, stating the town draws from a lower aquifer and projecting supply measured in centuries at current draw rates; staff emphasized the study will couple financial and system data to recommend any future actions. Vice Mayor moved to authorize the town manager to sign the study contract; the council approved the motion by voice vote.

The study is expected to take several months; draft recommendations will be presented to council, will be subject to public hearing, and any rate changes would be scheduled to take effect after requisite notice and adoption steps.