Letter to the editor: Support for proposed water rate
– Once again, I find myself doing something very unusual, that is to support a government fee increase. In this case, it is the proposed water rate increase, which includes structural changes to the way the rates are charged.
The current water fee basis does not adequately cover the revenue needs. Only a small portion of the monthly water rate is fixed, while about 85% of the water facility costs are fixed. Over five years, the new rate structure is moving closer to the actual cost structure, and includes revenue for much-needed capital investments.
The October 2022 Water Rate Study, which I did read, lays out the case for this needed change. We should set rates that actually match the costs, developing enough revue to deliver safe and consistent water to all.
I support the council in this new water rate proposal.
Keith Belmont
Paso Robles
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