LOS ANGELES : City Council Bid to End Water Rate Squabble Fails
After more than two years of study and nearly two hours of contentious debate, the Los Angeles City Council failed Tuesday to reach a consensus on a new water rate formula that gives breaks to single-family residents who live in hot areas, on large lots or have big families.
The deadlock came as representatives from south and central Los Angeles protested the formula, saying the breaks would benefit San Fernando Valley residents while forcing many other residents citywide to pay higher rates.
In the midst of heated debate, the council voted three times--and failed three times to gain a majority to adopt or reject the formula.
The panel voted 10 to 3 to send the matter to the Department of Water and Power Commission, instructing the citizens panel to study the matter further and consider drafting a new proposal.
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
