BREA : Council OKs Hike in Monthly Water Fees

Water rates will increase by $1.60 a month for most homeowners starting July 1, but trash collection and street sweeping rates will remain the same until after a public hearing on July 6.

The City Council on Tuesday unanimously approved the water rate increase, raising the average household’s monthly water bill from $24.87 to $26.47. It is the first increase since 1991.

Finance services director Larry Hurst said the new rates will be reflected on residents’ August water bills.

The water rate increase was one of 17 items in the consent calendar, which the council routinely approves. The trash collection and street sweeping fee hikes were also in the consent calendar, but the council decided to hold a public hearing before voting on them.

If approved after the July 6 public hearing, however, the new rates will take effect immediately, Hurst said.

The city’s trash hauler, Brea Disposal Inc., is requesting a 65-cent increase in trash collection fees, up from $11.29 to $11.94 for residents using 100-galloon trash bins, Hurst said.

Under the current contract with Brea Disposal, the city has to review the rates every year and make adjustments, if necessary. Last year, trash fees went up 96 cents, Hurst said.

On street sweeping fees, Hurst said, the proposed increase is 11 cents for single-family homes, from $1.64 to $1.75. For apartments and other multi-dwelling units, the proposed increase is 38.4 cents per unit.