Camarillo presents preliminary water and sewer rate increases ahead of May decision

Camarillo residents are set to see significant changes in their water and sewer rates following a detailed presentation at the City Council meeting on February 26, 2025. The council received an update on the ongoing water and sewer rate study, which began last summer, with plans for a public hearing scheduled for May 14, 2025, and potential new rates to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Assistant Finance Director Pam Townsend outlined the timeline for the rate study process, emphasizing that no decisions would be made at this meeting. Instead, the council is gathering feedback as they prepare for future discussions. The council will reconvene on March 12 and March 26 to further review proposed rates before the public hearing in May.

The proposed changes are driven by rising operational costs, increased expenses for purchased water, and the need for significant capital improvements, particularly in the sewer system. The average monthly water bill for residents is projected to rise from approximately $62 to $77, reflecting a $14.90 increase. In comparison to neighboring agencies, this would place Camarillo in the bottom third of water rates in the region.

For sewer services, the average monthly bill is expected to increase from $74 to about $86, an increase of approximately $11.89. This adjustment would position Camarillo near the top of the regional sewer rates, although many neighboring agencies are also undergoing rate studies that could affect future comparisons.

Overall, the combined impact of the proposed water and sewer rate increases would raise the average total monthly bill from $136 to approximately $163, a total increase of about $26.79. The council is committed to transparency throughout this process, ensuring residents are informed about the financial implications of the proposed rate adjustments and the necessity of funding critical infrastructure projects.