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County approves steep wastewater increases for Country Club Estates after public concern
Summary
The Board approved Proposition 218 wastewater rate increases for CSA 18 (San Luis Obispo Country Club Estates) that include two 35% annual increases for FY25–27; county staff said increases are necessary to address aging infrastructure, regulatory permit upgrades and depleted reserves, though several supervisors and residents expressed concern about sudden large bills for small communities.
Public Works presented a Proposition 218 hearing proposing steep wastewater rate increases for County Service Area 18 (San Luis Obispo Country Club Estates). Staff said the system, serving roughly 447 connections and treating about 70,000 gallons per day, has been operating on a 3% annual increase for two decades and now faces higher operational costs, regulatory permit upgrades and capital needs. The department proposed 35% increases in each of two years; staff gave an example that a single‑family residence would see a $596 increase the first year and $804 the second year.
Supervisor Ortiz Lake pressed staff on outreach and whether alternatives or smaller‑scale technologies had been explored; Public Works said the intent is to repair deferred maintenance, address safety concerns at lift stations and limit inflow/infiltration so the system can remain under the smaller state permitting thresholds. The clerk reported six valid written protests (not a majority) and the Board adopted the ordinance to adjust CSA 18 service charges. Board members asked staff to explore assistance options for residents on fixed incomes and to keep the Board informed of alternatives.
