California City needs a study to update its water and sewer rates in order to address what Public Works Director Joe Barragan called a “failed” water system. “The way the water system is now is not sustainable,” he said. “Our water system has failed.” The city has long been plagued with water line leaks. In addition, the system is operating with only about half its wells functional, Barrragan said. … The city last adopted a water rate study, and the associated rates, in 2014, he said. To keep up with changing costs, it is recommended that a rate study is conducted every three to five years. The city last commissioned a study in 2021, but it was never adopted. It was updated in 2023 but again not adopted. Continuing to put off an examination of the costs and rates needed to meet them will only mean a larger increase in rates for customers, Barragan said.

Other water rate news:

• The Manteca Bulletin (Calif.): Sewer, water bills up minimum of $18.39 in June​
• Arizona Daily Star (Tucson, Ariz.): Local opinion: Perspective on water rates