SAN DIEGO — The Sweetwater Authority approved a series of water rate hikes at a Wednesday governing board meeting.
Over the next three years, rates will go up 13 percent for the agency’s nearly 200,000 customers in National City, Bonita and parts of Chula Vista. Rates will increase by a half-percent on January 1 then another 6% the following year. Then, it would go up by six-and-a-half percent in 2026.
Back in September, the Sweetwater Authority's governing board accepted a rate study. It showed that the rate adjustments are meant to maintain water service operations and infrastructure.
The possible new rates will help with the necessary repairs and improvements to their old water system.
They also said that this is to keep up with the rising costs of treating and delivering water.
Some residents in Chula Vista have shared that they are not okay with the proposal. During Chula Vista’s City Council meeting in November, people were upset.
Many said that they can't afford these water rate hikes. They also said that Sweetwater Authority should base its decisions on helping its customers.
They add that these rate hikes will only hurt people's wallets even further.
People at Wednesday’s board meeting shared the same sentiment.
“We need to stop – we need to step back, we need to find a way to make it affordable for us, said Cindy D’Ambrosia.
A Zoom caller said the increase will have a disproportionate impact on low-income people and families who are already struggling to meet their basic needs.
The Sweetwater Authority Board’s Chair said customers went several years without a rate increase. However, rates did go up last January by 5%. He also said their agency’s rates are among the lowest in the county.
The Sweetwater Authority also says that it offers a series of rebate programs, and is now looking into a rate assistance program for low-income residents and seniors.