Five-year sewer rate plan approved for Bakersfield wastewater upgrades
(UI) - Officials in Bakersfield, Calif., have approved a five-year sewer rate plan intended to fund wastewater infrastructure improvements, system maintenance and long-term capital projects across the city's sewer network.
The City Council voted 5-2 to adopt a phased rate schedule that will increase the annual sewer service charge from $475 in fiscal year 2026-27 to $875 by fiscal year 2030-31. According to 23ABC News, the increases will take effect each July 1, beginning in 2026.
The rate plan follows a utility revenue study conducted by the Bakersfield Water Department and HF&H Consultants, which evaluated funding needs for the city's sewer collection system, stormwater infrastructure and two wastewater treatment plants. The analysis included a 15-year review of capital improvement needs, operations and maintenance requirements, and staffing demands.
City staff said the sewer enterprise fund relies primarily on customer rates and warned that failing to adjust rates could leave the system underfunded in future years. The approved increases are intended to support ongoing infrastructure investments and maintain system reliability, 23ABC News reported.
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