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Water Rates Rise Again

San Diego is passing on the County Water Authority’s water rate hike to its ratepayers. But unlike other cities in the region, San Diego is asking residents for an extra increase, which some see as

Water Rates Rise Again

San Diego is passing on the County Water Authority’s water rate hike to its ratepayers. But unlike other cities in the region, San Diego is asking residents for an extra increase,  which some see as a long term investment. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

When San Diego city residents get a letter in the mail describing yet another round of water rate increases, they’ll find part of it is for a new demonstration project to try what’s called, “Indirect potable reuse,” a kind of water reclamation.

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Bruce Resnick of San Diego Coast keeper applauds the city council for pushing ahead with the plan, against the mayor’s objections.

Resnick : I recognize this is a difficult ask in this economic climate. That being said, there is nothing more important to the long term security and vitality of this city than developing an affordable, drought- proof and municipally owned source of water.

Mayor Sanders says this kind of water reclamation is too expensive, but it’s now supported by both the Chamber of Commerce and environmental groups.

The demonstration project will cost about $11 million. 

The rate increase would only last as long as it takes to raise this amount.

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The combined rate increases will mean about $4:50 a month for the average homeowner.

The rate hike will go through unless 50% of residents reject it by responding within 45 days. 

A hearing is schedueld for November 17th

Alison St John, KPBS news