Sewer, Water Rates to Rise Amid Higher Pumping, Water Costs

After a rise in water and electricity costs, the Ramona Municipal Water District board passed a $32 million budget Tuesday with increased rates for water and sewage users.

According to the district, rates for water and pumping services will increase by 3 percent and sewer rates by 4.5 percent.

The cost increases are based on preliminary guidance from the San Diego County Water Authority (SDCWA), which is the sole supplier of both treated and untreated water to RMWD. District General Manager David Barnum said the SDCWA has raised the cost of water to the district by 3.5 percent.

Richard Hannasch, financial services director the RMWD, said the increased cost for the electrical/pumping rate was due to San Diego Gas & Electric announcing their plans to increase their rates, too.

The new rates fo residents will be effective July 1.

According to RMWD, there were eight protest letters submitted and three speakers addressed the RMWD Board of Directors on the June 25. Residents were asking the board to not approve of the rate increases.

But Board President Darrell Beck said a rise in costs was necessary, due to the SDCWA rate hike.

"We can't change the cost we pay for water, but we are trying to do things to help reduce costs where we can," Beck said, mentioning recycled water projects, solar panels at the wastewater facilities and the plans for a natural gas line at the Poway Pump Station.

The $32 million budget includes $1.9 million cost for the Poway Pump Station project, which is said to potentially reduce future pumping costs, as well as recycled water projects for the San Vicente and the Santa Maria Treatment Facilities.

Director Rex Schildhouse praised the district's efforts in creating the budget for the new fiscal year, saying he was "happy with the compromise;" while Vice President Joe Zenovic called the it "remarkably good."

The budget, with the rate increases included, was passed 4-0, with Director Kit Kesinger absent.

How do you feel about the increased rates? Tell us in the comments.