Higher water rates could be coming to Phoenix. On Wednesday, a city subcommittee will discuss infrastructure needs and charging residents and businesses more for their water.
The Water/Wastewater Rate Advisory Committee voted unanimously to recommend water rates be increased 12 percent over the next two years. The Water Services Department says infrastructure improvements will cost around $1.5 billion over the next five years. The Department also wants to use a million dollars for a one-year marketing contract to promote conservation.
According to a city report, Phoenix water rates are among the lowest compared to other large cities. Over a 12-month period, it finds the average monthly water bill for a single family home is 36 dollars. That does not include wastewater, trash and other fees that make up a city services bill.
During the council’s Oct. 9, 2018, policy session, the Water Services Department plans to ask the council to adopt a notice of intent to increase water rates. It is expected that public input will be gathered in October and November with a final vote by the council planned for December, 2018.
If the council approves, rates would be raised by 6 percent in early 2019 and by another 6 percent in early 2020.
