Link to Proposed Changes in Sewer Service Rates and Charges (English&Spanish

Description

Notice of Public Hearing on Proposed Changes in Sewer Service Rates and Charges Hearing Date: May 14, 2026 Time: 6:00 p.m. Location: Salida Sanitary District, 6200 Pirrone Road, Salida CA 95368 The Salida Sanitary District (“District”) is proposing a five-year adjustment to wastewater rates for all customers. The District’s Board will consider the proposal at a Public Hearing on May 14, 2026. If approved, new rates will take effect in FY 2026–27 and appear on annual property tax bills. You are receiving this notice because District records show you are a sewer customer. Basis for the Proposed Rates State law requires the District to collect sufficient revenue to operate, maintain, and repair the wastewater system to best protect public health and safety and reliably convey and treat wastewater. Costs funded by rates include electricity, equipment, supplies, services, wastewater treatment, debt service, salaries, benefits, and infrastructure repair. Rates were developed through a Sewer User Rate Study to ensure compliance with legal requirements and equitable allocation among customer classes. The study is available at the District office at 6200 Pirrone Road in Salida. What Will the Rates Fund? The District provides wastewater utility services to both residential and non-residential customers. All wastewater rate revenue supports system operation, maintenance, repair, and replacement. Costs for new system expansions are covered by connection fees paid by new development—not by existing customers. By State law, the District may not collect more revenue than is necessary to recover the costs of providing services. Amount of the Sewer Service Charge Rates include three components: (1) Base Charge: covers fixed operating costs and is shared equally across customers, (2) Volumetric Charge: based on actual or estimated wastewater flow, and (3) Strength Charge: based on the estimated strength of flow. Charges are applied per Equivalent Dwelling Unit (EDU), where one EDU equals the flow from a typical single-family residence. Some properties have multiple EDUs. Rates increase annually for cost-of-living adjustments. The proposed rates for the next five years are shown in the table. Protest Information The Board will accept oral and written testimony and written protests at the May 14 hearing. Written comments and protests may also be submitted to: Salida Sanitary District, PO Box 445, Salida, CA 95368. Items must be received before the hearing.