Proposed Water Rate Hikes Face Scrutiny

Fresno City Council members are seeking more public review before advancing a proposed water and sewer rate increase of about 30%, which could affect residents over a multiyear period. Councilmember Miguel Arias argues the proposal raises affordability and transparency concerns and questions whether current ratepayers would subsidize services for future developments, while some colleagues say the reports need closer scrutiny. Mayor Jerry Dyer says higher rates are needed to replace aging water and sewer mains and address infrastructure risks, noting that water and wastewater rates have not risen for years. The council is being asked to begin the Proposition 218 public hearing process, with members urging that the proposal receive fuller discussion before a decision.