Council adopts 2.6% wastewater rate increase tied to ENR index

The City Council adopted a 2.6% wastewater rate increase for residential, commercial and industrial customers — the ENR indexing pre-authorized by the city’s Proposition 218 process — to take effect July 1, 2026. The staff presentation explained that the five‑year rate schedule adopted in 2024 allowed annual adjustments tied to the Engineering News‑Record index, capped at 5% per year, and that the 2.6% 2026 ENR annual change produced the recommended increase.

Public Works Management Analyst Rebecca Arita told council the adjustment would raise the usage charge from $3.23 to $3.31 per CCF and increase a typical bill for a 3/4‑inch meter at 9 CCF. Staff said the wastewater financial model forecasts about $41 million in system projects through 2030, and that incremental annual rate increases help support lining, pump station and treatment-plant capital work. Public comment urged caution because residents struggle with rising living costs; council members discussed affordability and staff noted available assistance programs for low-income customers.

Council opened and closed the public hearing with no major revisions to staff’s recommendation, then moved to approve the resolution adopting the ENR-based adjustment. Staff emphasized the city typically uses trenchless lining (CIPP) for many sewer-rehabilitation projects to reduce disruption and cost compared with full excavation, and that annual increases help fund the multi-year rehabilitation plan.

What’s next: The new rates take effect July 1, 2026; staff will continue using the city’s financial model to program capital work and will provide details on customer-assistance programs.