Council postpones Source water-rate vote after long debate over costs, equity and operations

The council voted to postpone consideration of a proposed multi-year water-rate package from Source (the city—s utilities entity) after extended public comment and council debate.

Source staff and board representatives told the council the four-year plan is the lowest-cost option to address aging infrastructure and long-term capital needs and to reduce water loss. "Este plan muestra la razón por la que un plan de 4 años es importante," Source staff said, outlining capital and reliability risks and warning postponement would increase future costs and operational risk.

Public commenters and business groups were split. The Greater Chamber and Hispanic Chamber testified in favor if the increase is accompanied by clear reporting and accountability. Other speakers raised affordability concerns and criticized past operational issues and communication around outages; one commenter questioned executive pay and bonuses. Councilmembers pressed Source for more targeted metrics, stronger post-construction obligations and expanded affordability enrollment; several asked for an independent audit. Councilmember concerns included how leak repairs are prioritized, construction coordination and how UPLIFT and other assistance programs will reach vulnerable households.

After debate, a motion to postpone consideration to October passed. Mayor Gene Ortiz Jones announced the council would meet in executive session on other matters following the public meeting.

Next steps: the council—s postponement allows time for Source to return with additional operational metrics, audit results and clarified affordability enrollment numbers before a future vote.