Water Rates to Increase by 5-7 Percent Over Five Years

The city will pick up discussion about Petaluma's water and wastewater rates at a special meeting held tonight at 6pm. The meeting is a precursor to a public hearing on the issue that will be held Dec. 5.

Sonoma County Water Agency's rates have increased an average of 8 percent over the past four years and are expected to rise 5 to 7 percent over the next five years in order to pay for ongoing maintenance as well a build reserves for operations and equipment.

Click here to see the draft waster and wastewater financial plan and rate study

During a rate study workshop last November, the City Council identified problems in the water rate structure that left businesses, especially those that are industrial in nature, with large water bills. In some instances, the highest tier users (such as laundries or businesses that use a lot of water), may see their rates doubled, according to the draft study.

Tonight's meeting will take place at 6pm at City Hall, 11 English St.