Monterey Park property owners and water utility users have been notified by the city that there may be a rate increase on the water rates, sewer rates and solid waste (trash) rates in September 2014 through September 2018.

These funds will be used to cover the costs of replacing old water lines and sewer lines in the city.  Some of these pipelines are almost as old as the city that was incorporated in 1916.

Currently the city staff is only doing emergency repairs on broken pipelines.  Since 2002 the city had approximately 25 water pipe brakes to repair. In 2011 the city had 34 water pipe brakes to repair. This damage has cost the city approximately $10,000 to $270,000 per break.

A 2012 Water Master Plan recommended a $100 Million Capitol Improvement Project that will improve water delivery, water quality and fire protection.

The city staff has determined that this project will take up to 20 years to be completed.  They have selected the locations for the replacement of the pipelines for each section of the city that require major repairs. Emergency repairs will still be done as required.

The Council will review these rates every five years to determine if these rates can be decreased or increased. The decisions will be based on the status of this 20-year project.

Proposition 218 requires the property owners and/or water customers agree to the rate increases.

If 51% of the property owners and/or water customers oppose the rate increases then the city cannot increase the water and sewer rates.  The trash rates are based on the Consumer Price Index and can be increased per our contract with Athens Services.

Residents are reviewing their current water bills and the estimated rate increases provided by the city to determine their decision on this project.

All protest votes must be returned to the City Hall by the close of business on June 18.

The Council will be advised of the outcome of the protest votes and make a final decision on the 2012 Water Master Plan rate increases during the June 18 meeting.

For more information please contact the Monterey Park Management Services Department at 626-307-1342 or visit the city website at www.montereypark.ca.gov.