Rancho Murieta board adopts ordinance raising water, sewer and related fees

The Rancho Murieta Community Services District board on June 17 adopted an ordinance increasing water, sewer, solid‑waste, storm drainage and security service charges after a public comment period and board discussion.

Resident Ed Hezewski urged the board to reconsider the size and timing of the proposed increases, calling them “kinda shocking” and recommending the district spread increases over several years so customers could “absorb those costs in a more timely way.” Hezewski said a smaller, multi‑year phase‑in — “10% over three years” — would reach a similar total increase while easing customer impact.

Board members and staff responded that the rate process had proceeded through required steps, that notices and letters had already been issued and that legal deadlines limited the board’s options at this stage. Cecilia, finance staff, said the district plans a more detailed rate study in the coming budget year to compare costs with peer utilities and to identify grant opportunities. Directors and staff cited long‑term underfunding of capital reserves and rising operating costs, particularly large increases in chemical prices, as drivers requiring significant rate adjustments to restore reserve levels.

The motion to adopt the ordinance was moved, seconded and approved by roll call; affirmative votes were recorded from Directors Butler, Gear and Janko and the ordinance carried. The board did not reverse the ordinance during the meeting.

The board signaled that staff will proceed with the scheduled rate implementation steps and complete the planned rate‑study work for the next fiscal cycle. The meeting adjourned with the board thanking staff for the budget and outreach work.