California Water News Daily Your Source For Water News in California
Following a public hearing earlier this month, the San Diego County Water Authority (SDCWA) Board of Directors approved increasing wholesale water rates for 2024.
SDCWA member agencies will see wholesale rates increase by 9.5%. Actual rate impacts will vary by agency based on their use of the Water Authority’s system and actual water purchases. Water rates paid by residents and businesses will also vary based on factors unique to each retail agency.
“The Board and staff have worked tirelessly for months to minimize rate increases while supporting the reliability of our water supply,” said Water Authority Board Chair Mel Katz. “Despite cost increases created by extraordinary inflation and depressed water sales, we have a budget that allows the Water Authority to do what it does best – provide the water that sustains our economy and quality of life.”
The Board also approved the staff recommended $1.85 billion budget for fiscal years 2024 and 2025, an increase of 5% from the current two-year budget due to higher costs for water, treatment and infrastructure maintenance. The budget prioritizes the following initiatives:
- Long-term planning
- Capital projects
- Engaging stakeholders
- System and asset management
- Fiscal responsibility and cost control
