PWP to Host Public Outreach Meeting for Water Rate Adjustments March 9; Public Hearing Scheduled for March 14

As part of its continued public outreach campaign, Pasadena Water and Power (PWP) will host the third and final community outreach meeting about water rates in advance of the scheduled public hearing.

The community outreach meeting, which will be held in person, is scheduled for 2 p.m. Wednesday, March 9 at Robinson Park Recreation Center, 1081 N. Fair Oaks Ave.

Members of the public will have an opportunity to ask questions and learn more about the recommended water rate adjustments.

PWP is recommending the water rate adjustments in an effort to continue excellent service. The proposed increases will help cover rising costs for purchasing and treating water, and provide funding for critical improvements to reservoirs, treatment facilities and other water infrastructure. Pending City Council approval, the initial adjustment will increase the system average rate by 7.1% on April 1. A second adjustment to increase the system average rate by 7.2% would take effect on Jan. 1.

The meeting is scheduled to take place just days before the Pasadena City Council conducts a public hearing on Monday, March 14, at 5 p.m. via video/teleconference to consider the adoption of the recommended water rate adjustments to existing rate structures, and a change in the definition of the capital improvement charge.

The public is encouraged to participate via video/teleconference and submit public comments.

While individual customer bill impacts will vary based on water meter size and amount of water used, projected cost estimates show most residential customers will likely see an increase of approximately $3 in their monthly bill starting April 1, and an additional $4 monthly increase on Jan. 1. Based on similar modeling, PWP estimates that commercial customers are likely to see a $19 and $20 increase, respectively.

A recording of a previous virtual public outreach meeting is available online.