DWP’s New Water Rates Are Unfair to Customers
* I can’t believe the lack of publicity thus far on the subject of the new water rates charged by the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power.
The so-called mayor’s blue ribbon committee on water rates has recommended, and with minor modifications the City Council has approved, a change that is totally unfair and inequitable.
The committee decided that a base amount of water would be provided at a reduced rate to all customers of the DWP.
It does not matter whether you live in a hot, dry climate or a beach community. It does not matter whether you live on a large lot with extensive landscaping or a small lot with almost none.
It does not matter whether you have a swimming pool or a birdbath. And it does not matter whether 10 people live in your home or only one. Every residential customer is allowed the same base amount.
If you should exceed this base amount, God help you. The price per hundred cubic feet almost doubles.
Now that we are experiencing our normal summer hot weather in the Valley, water bills are going to go through the roof. Help!
BENJAMIN B. PHELPS
Sherman Oaks
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