Title
Public Hearing - Proposed Water Service Revenue Increase
Description
Request to hold a public hearing to receive comments on proposed amendment to section 37-63 of the Phoenix City Code to provide for an increase in revenues for water service. This hearing is held in accordance with Arizona Revised Statute 9-511.01.
Report
Public Outreach
Information detailing the proposed water revenue increase of 6.5 percent over the two-year period of calendar years 2021 and 2022 is available to the public in the City Clerk Department of the City of Phoenix located at 200 W. Washington St., 15th Floor. Information is also available on the City of Phoenix website: https://www.phoenix.gov/waterrates.
Phoenix water rates remain among the most affordable in major cities throughout the Southwest. Nonetheless, the Mayor and Council have approved substantial water equity measures to ensure that low income households maintain access to water services, particularly during the current pandemic. The proposed increase applies only to the water volume charges assessed on water use above the allowance amount included in the fixed monthly service charge, resulting in no water rate increase at all for households that maintain water use within those allowances. Currently, approximately 40 percent of households served in Phoenix maintain monthly water use below those allowance levels.
During the month of February 2021, information on the proposed rate increase was mailed to all water account holders through the City Services bill and PHX at your Service (PAYS). Over 20 community outreach meetings and open houses also were held to present information and obtain feedback, and numerous media interviews and social media posts occurred (Attachment A). The Citizens' Water and Wastewater Rate Advisory Committee recommended the proposed revenue increase, citing that it would generate the resources necessary to invest in rehabilitation and replacement of critical infrastructure including water pipes, treatment plants, pumps, reservoirs and wells that provide residents with clean, affordable, reliable and sustainable water. (Attachment B).
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Deputy City Manager Karen Peters and the Water Services and Finance departments.