Cost Of Municipal Water Could Increase In Tucson

TUCSON, AZ — Residents in Tucson are invited to attend four upcoming public meetings regarding a potential hike in water rates for Tucson consumers.

According to the City of Tucson's website, the rate hike is intended to offset the rising cost of infrastructure maintenance, drive efficiency to a growing population, manage debt and purchase a stockpile of water for the future.

This announcement comes on the heels of an earlier Tucson Water announcement that the city was working to develop One Water 2100 Master Plan, a comprehensive water management plan spanning 80 years.

The master plan looks at ways to make the most of all water sources, including surface water, ground water, storm-water runoff and reclaimed water, as well as ways to improve and maintain water infrastructure.

Online, Tucson Water said some of its $2 million worth of water infrastructure has been in the ground since before World War II. An increased rate would help afford new water mains in neighborhoods experiencing frequent water breaks.

All told, over 5,000 miles of pipe, 21,000 fire hydrants and 200 wells comprise the system.

The hike would also help offset the water department's debt, Tucson Water said. The website states Tucson Water issues bonds to fund large projects but then must repay bond amounts at low interest over many years, minimizing flexibility in the city budget to adjust where changes are needed.

According to Tucson Water, the increased rates would also be used to purchase a reserve of water to prepare for future Colorado River shortages.

The website states Tucson stores about one year's worth of water from the Central Arizona Project in local aquifers. Last year, the stockpile came at a cost exceeding $25 million.

Residents who are interested in learning more about the proposed rate hike are invited to attend four upcoming public meetings and share public comments.

In the upcoming meetings, Tucson Water staff is set to explain the utility's financial-planning and rate-setting process, review its rate-making objectives and explain its five-year financial plan and revenue requirements and proposed rate adjustments.

Upcoming informational public meetings will be held as follows:

• Tuesday, March 10, 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. (Spanish translation services available)
  • Valencia Branch Library, 202 W. Valencia Road

• Thursday, March 12, 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
  • Randolph Center, 900 S. Randolph Way
• Tuesday, March 24, 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
  • Udall Center, 7200 E. Tanque Verde Road
• Thursday, March 26, 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
  • Online; customers may text/submit questions