Glendale proposes raising utility rates again due to rising costs
Jul 19, 2021, 4:35 AM
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PHOENIX — The city of Glendale is again proposing an increase in the utility rates due to rising costs after the previous increase took effect earlier this year.
The city said the proposal is due to increasing costs to operate and maintain its water treatment plants, wastewater treatment facilities, water mains, sewer lines, water booster pumps, sewer lift stations, wells and reservoirs, along with the rising cost of raw water for both Central Arizona Project and Salt River Project.
An average customer who uses 9,000 gallons per month would end up paying about 10 cents more per day under the proposal, the city said.
If approved, the increased rates would take effect in January of next year.
The Glendale City Council approved the previous increase of 6.5% for water rates and 5.5% for sewer rates in June 2019, with the raised rate taking effect on Jan. 1.
An informational meeting regarding the proposal will take place at the Glendale City Chambers (5850 W. Glendale Ave.) on July 27 at 2 p.m. It can also be viewed on the city’s Facebook or YouTube platforms as well as on the city’s website and Glendale Channel 11.
The city said without the increased rates it would be forced to reduce investment in necessary capital improvements, infrastructure repair or replacement and preventative maintenance.
Over time, the city said the lack of capital improvements would result in less reliable water and sewer services with more frequent infrastructure failures, street damage and an increased possibility for regulatory compliance violations, along with higher operating costs and increased emergency or unanticipated expenditures in the long run.
The council will consider the rates increase in August. If the proposal moves forward, a public hearing and vote will be held in October.