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Committee hears early budget assumptions: 2.32% COLA, insurance and energy costs to rise
Summary
Budget staff presented preliminary operating assumptions: a 2.32% cost‑of‑living adjustment (roughly $182,000), CalPERS health‑insurance premiums up ~10.54% (~$151,000), and a potential ~20% electricity increase tied to a CPUC Liberty rate case; staff will firm numbers in September/October.
Budget staff provided high‑level operating assumptions for the 2026 budget that will be refined during the fall process.
A presenter said the cost‑of‑living adjustment is “trending at 2.32%.” The presenter also reported a projected 10.54% increase in health‑insurance premiums through CalPERS, adding an estimated $151,000, and flagged a possible 20% electricity increase related to a pending CPUC general rate case with Liberty. Staff said they are also contemplating full Proposition 218 rate adjustments that would amount to roughly a 9.5% increase in water rates and an 8% increase in sewer rates for planning purposes.
Staff emphasized these are early assumptions that will be firmed in September and October and that detailed rate and fee recommendations will return to the board later in the budget process.
