San Carlos residents, take note! Cal Water is proposing additional water rate hikes as part of its 2024 Infrastructure Improvement Plan. This proposal comes on the heels of the rate increase that went into effect in 2024.

 

A Summary of Water Rate Hikes

In an article last year, we discussed Cal Water’s shift from a three-tier to a four-tier water rate structure in the Bayshore Area which took into effect August 2024; also highlighting the price reduction for the first six units of water and the significant increase for higher usage levels. Changes are outlined as follows:

2021:

  • 1–7 units : $7.24 per unit
  • 8–10 units: $9.05 per unit
  • Above 10 units: $13.56 per unit

*Plus a $29 service charge for homes without fire sprinklers.

August 2024:

  • 1–6 units: $3.45 per unit
  • 7–9 units: $13.73 per unit
  • 10–13 units: $17.16 per unit
  • Above 13 units: $25.73 per unit

While low water users saw a price decrease, mid- and high-tier consumers faced steep increases, sparking concerns about fairness, especially when compared to lower rates in other districts like the Bear Gulch District. In a public meeting with City Council and Cal Water, some notable concerns and suggestions came up from the Council and/or the residents:

  • Former Vice Mayor Sara McDowell made the comment that San Carlos, as part of the Bayshore District, is a town of only 30,000 people, while the other members of the same (South San Francisco and San Mateo combined) have 170,000 people. Plus, South San Francisco and San Mateo both have many neighborhoods far older than here in San Carlos. Is San Carlos subsidizing for infrastructure upgrades from other communities?
  • San Carlos officials and residents are calling for greater transparency and accountability in how funds from these hikes are allocated.
  • Stephen Wexler, one of the many residents of San Carlos greatly affected by the price hikes, suggested to have San Carlos join the Bear Gulch District instead, where the rates are much lower.

The City is urging community participation tomorrow in Cal Water meetings and public hearings to ensure equitable pricing.

 

Water Rates San Carlos CA (1)

What Happens at the Public Participation Hearing

The Public Participation Hearing is part of a formal proceeding that will be documented and placed into the formal record so the CPUC can make a decision about Cal Water’s request.

The assigned CPUC Administrative Law Judge will consider proposals and evidence presented during the formal hearing process. The Administrative Law Judge will issue a proposed decision that may adopt Cal Water’s application, modify it, or deny it. Any CPUC Commissioner may sponsor an alternate decision with a different outcome. The proposed decision, and any alternate decisions, will be discussed and voted upon by the CPUC Commissioners at a public CPUC Voting Meeting.

Parties to the proceeding may review Cal Water’s application, including the Public Advocates Office, which is an independent consumer advocate within the CPUC that represents customers to obtain the lowest possible rate for service consistent with reliable and safe service levels.

 

How Can I Participate?

The Public Forums can be viewed online or listened to via phone with the information below. Your participation by providing your thoughts on Cal Water’s request can help the CPUC make an informed decision. The Public Forums will happen this Thursday, Jan 23 at 1pm and 6pm:

Call-in: 800-857-1917. English Passcode: 6032788# Spanish Passcode: 9899501# To make public comment: Press ☂1 to be added to the queue

Submit written comments live: https://apps.cpuc.ca.gov/c/A2407003

 

About the Increase

According to Cal Water, if the proposal is approved by the CPUC as filed, beginning in 2026, the average residential bill in the Bay Area Region’s Bayshore area (with a 5/8”x3/4” meter and using 4,488 gallons, or 6 Ccf*, per month) would increase by approximately $0.42, or 0.8%, per month. You may use more or less than the average. These numbers do not include temporary surcharges and credits. More details, including proposed changes for other meter sizes and usage tiers, are available at calwater.com/iip/resources.

From the Proposed Tariff Section of the 2024 Infrastructure Improvement Plan:

  • 1 – 6 units: 3.1610 per unit
  • 7 – 9 units: $12.6439 per unit
  • 10 – 19 units: $25.2879 per CCF
  • 19 CCF: $50.5758 per CCF (double the rate last August 2024!)

Over the course of the review process, which could take 18 months or more, some projects may be deferred or costs adjusted. Final rates approved may be lower than what was proposed.
*1 Ccf = 748 gallons

Average Residential Customer Bill Increase

Customer Type Monthly Usage Current Bill Proposed 2026 Change Proposed 2027 Change Proposed 2028 Change
Residential 6 Ccf $49.80 $50.22 0.8% $53.93 7.4% $57.88 7.3%
Residential (Customer Assistance Program) 6 Ccf $35.25 $34.59 -1.9% $37.11 7.3% $39.79 7.2%

Make Your Voice Heard

This is a critical opportunity for San Carlos residents to engage in the decision-making process. Whether you’re concerned about affordability or want to better understand Cal Water’s plans, your input matters. Don’t miss this chance to participate in shaping the future of your community’s water infrastructure.


For More Information

Contact Cal Water:

Contact CPUC:

Please reference Cal Water’s Application 24-07-003 in any communications you have with the CPUC regarding this matter.


For More News

For more of what’s happening in and around San Carlos, please visit San Carlos Life Blog

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