CARLSBAD : Sewer Rate Hike Is Approved
Carlsbad residents have been hit with a hike in sewer rate charges, but a water rate increase has been delayed.
The City Council, which also serves as the board of the Carlsbad Municipal Water District, on Tuesday unanimously approved an 11.3% increase in charges for sewage treatment.
The new rates will take effect immediately, administrative analyst Jeanne Flack said. She said sewer charges, now $11.58 a month, will go to $13.06 a month to pay for equipment depreciation, maintenance and replacement.
Water district staff members also recommended a 12.2% water rate hike from $1.15 per unit of 748 gallons to $1.29 per unit. It is needed, said Flack, to cover increased costs of imported water from the San Diego County Water Authority.
But the council sent the issue back to the staff to consider creating a graduated billing system, which would penalize those who use more water. It would be triggered during times of drought or water shortage.
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