The Albuquerque-Bernalillo County Water Authority has put forward a proposal to increase base water and sewer rates by 12% monthly. If approved, this adjustment would lead to a rise of approximately $6 per month in the combined water and sewer bill for an average single-family household.

Keeping Rates Competitive

Officials from the Water Authority emphasize that even with this increase, customers would still be paying less compared to residents in similar cities. According to them, Albuquerque and Bernalillo County residents currently pay lower water and sewer rates than those in Tucson, Denver, Colorado Springs, and Austin. Furthermore, the proposed rates would remain notably lower than those in nearby municipalities such as Rio Rancho and Santa Fe.

Previous Adjustments and Current Proposal

The last rate adjustment occurred in July 2022, marking nearly two years since any changes to the billing structure. The Water Authority had proposed rate increases in the previous year as well, demonstrating ongoing efforts to address financial needs while maintaining affordability for customers.

Board Meeting and Future Steps

A crucial board meeting is scheduled for May 8 to deliberate on the proposed rate increase. Should the board approve the adjustments, customers can expect to see the revised rates reflected in their August billing statements.

Conclusion: Ensuring Sustainable Water Management

As discussions unfold regarding the proposed rate increase by the Albuquerque-Bernalillo County Water Authority, the focus remains on ensuring sustainable water management practices while balancing the financial implications for residents. Stay informed on local developments by downloading The Local News App today.

Source