San Lorenzo Valley Water District looks into rate hikes

Residents in San Lorenzo Valley may see their water bills go up. The San Lorenzo Valley Water district had a special meeting Thursday to talk with people about the rate hike and restructure.

The increase would bring millions more in revenue to the water district. About 50 people showed up Thursday, many wanting answers about what that money will be used for.

The water district says the rate increase is to cover capital and operational costs. It’s something the residents that came out to the meeting didn’t take lightly.

Though some understand the need for the increase, they think the water district can do more for its residents.

“I wish they’d be more forthcoming with all their information,” said Lois Henry, a Lompico resident and former Board President on the now defunct Lompico Water District. “[I wish] that they would have put more information out months ago.”

The water district’s board says they are doing more to reach out to the public. Though they know residents still aren’t going to be happy to see their bills go up, they say it’s necessary.

“We have not been collecting enough revenue to cover capital replacements,” said Brian Lee, District Manager with the water district. “We are covering operational costs right now but we really have no money left over for capital replacements. Pipelines, pumps, tanks.”

The board is required to notify each property that will be impacted by the rate hike and the individuals have 45 days to protest the increase.

The board will have a public hearing on September 21st to get more feedback and vote on the increase.