The board of the San Dieguito Water District, which serves Encinitas, is considering raising water rates, but has voted to present its proposal to ratepayers.
The board voted to go ahead with a January hearing that would discuss the changes. Under the new plan, rates would go up slowly at first, but increase more steeply later on.
The plan under consideration calls for a 6.5% increase next year, and an increase of up to 6.5% the next fiscal year. This option is lower than two others the board considered, which asked for raises of 7.5% and 9%, respectively.
Across California, water districts are approving large increases in customers' rates, due to several things. Two of the most important are related to the ongoing drought: local water sources have evaporated, forcing cities to buy imported water, which is more expensive; and conservation efforts that have been put in place because of the drought have used up water districts' operating revenue.
In addition, California has tasked the city with funding its pension liabilities, which are currently unfunded. Finally, a recent lawsuit in another city has changed how water providers calculate their charges.
In view of the complexity of the issues, Encinitas officials might create Brochures to mail to residents, explaining the options considered. The hearing is set for January 20, 2016.Get a Free Quote for Brochures
Location
1538 Encinitas Blvd
Encinitas, CA 92024
Get Directions →
Phone
Hours
Mon: 9:00 - 5:00
Tue: 9:00 - 5:00
Wed: 9:00 - 5:00
Thu: 9:00 - 5:00
Fri: 9:00 - 5:00
Sat: Closed
Sun: Closed