PADRE DAM WEIGHS RATE HIKE: PUBLIC FORUM THURSDAY JULY 26

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July 25, 2012 (San Diego’s East County)—Padre Dam Municipal Water District are considering a rate hike on its 24,000 customers in East County.

On Thursday, July 26 at 6 p.m., the District will hold a workshop at its board room (9300 Fanita Parkway in Santee) to explain the proposal and answer questions. 

A decision on the rate increase will be made at a public hearing on August 15.

If approved, the increased rates would take effect November 1, 2012 and show up on customers’ bills starting January 1, 2013.

Ironically, the district contends the rate hike is needed due to  conservation leading to a 34% loss in water sales, reducing gross revenues by $28 million.  The district has cut its workforce by 19%, eliminating 19 jobs and also cut pension and medical benefits, as well as deferring $12.6 in capital improvements, reducing operating expenses and cutting starting salaries.

Among residential users, the district proposes five categories based on property size and one category for multi-family dwellings and mobilehome parks.  It also wants to eliminate tiers for non-residential (commercial and irrigation) customers and charge a universal rate for water. 

For details on the rate hike proposed,  see: http://www.padredam.org/DocumentCenter/Home/View/393

To protest the rate increase, customers must submit letters to Board Secretary, P.O. Boc 719003, Santee, CA 92072-9003.

 


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