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Gilbert residents could soon be paying significantly higher water rates

If approved by the council, rates would increase over the next three years by about 50% starting in April.

GILBERT, Ariz. — Cities across the Valley are charging more when it comes to water use. 

The town of Gilbert is now on that list. The plan that was brought forward to the board at their last meeting would increase the amount customers are already paying by 50%.

It's an idea councilmembers were not happy with.

“We've got residents that are really struggling out there," said councilmember Bobbi Buchli.

Town officials said the increase in rates is needed due to aging infrastructure, water shortages and potential water contamination that needs to be addressed.

“Delaying these projects has direct implications on the useful life of the infrastructure, and therefore the overall cost to the community for ownership,” Eric Braun, Gilbert's assistant Public Works director, said.

If approved by the council, rates would increase over the next three years by about 50% starting in April. It will also put the town in debt $80 million because a cash bond for that same amount would be used for water projects.

On the Town's website, residents can see how much their bill would go up if the rate hike is approved.

The council, begrudgingly, preferred this option over the other increase that was proposed. It would have raised rates by about 130% in April but there would be no debt. 

The council will vote on the matter in February.

12News received a statement from a spokesperson regarding the potential increase that said in part:

“The Gilbert Town Council recognizes the difficulty utility rate increases can pose on Gilbert’s households but remain committed to ensuring the residents continue to have access to the safe, reliable and quality water resources and utilities the residents have come to expect and appreciate."

In the neighborhood just south of downtown, some were unaware of the potential rate increase. Douglas Forsgiren, who said he has lived in Gilbert since 1988, said if the increase is approved, he would make some drastic changes.

“I probably wouldn’t have a lawn anymore,” Forsgiren said. "Letting it dry out and not be green.”

Or switch to gravel, which Neal McLeod did a few months ago because of his water bill. Now, he is paying about $60 a month for water. However, the proposal would turn his payment into $90 to $100 a month.

“That is out of touch with our community and our economic situation as is,” McLeod said.

A public meeting will be held January 24th where residents can weigh in on the matter and learn more about the proposed rate hike.

In Mesa, the city council at its last meeting approved a water rate hike, increasing customer's bill by 3%, according to a city spokesperson.

Those living in Phoenix noticed their bills go up in October when its water rate increased after the city council made approved the hike in June.

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