The West Sacramento City Council conducted a Public Hearing at 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 18, 2026, to consider adopting proposed rate adjustments to the City’s current water and sewer service rates and charges.

The City hosted two informational Open Houses in preparation for the Public Hearing. City staff and financial consultants answered questions one-on-one. The Open Houses were opportunities to gain insight into system improvements and understand how proposed rates may impact your bill. Residents also learned more about water and sewer service, proposed rate increases, and the investments needed to ensure reliable service for years to come.

Much of the City’s water and sewer infrastructure was built decades ago and is now aging and in need of repair or replacement. At the same time, construction costs, materials, and regulatory requirements have all increased. Current rates are not sufficient to cover these rising costs. The proposed increases are phased in over time to maintain reliable service and reduce the risk of more expensive emergency repairs in the future.

Rates are based on a Cost-of-Service Study, which calculates the actual cost of providing water and sewer service. The study evaluates operating expenses, infrastructure needs, and system usage, and allocates costs based on how customers use the system. This ensures that rates comply with Proposition 218, which requires that rates do not exceed the cost of service and are distributed proportionally.

The rate study shows that without adjustments, revenues would not be sufficient to cover operating costs, infrastructure needs, and required reserves. Over time, this would lead to depleted reserves and delayed maintenance and replacement of critical infrastructure. Addressing these needs proactively helps maintain reliable service and avoids higher costs associated with system failures and emergency repairs.

Delaying infrastructure projects may reduce costs in the short term, but it often leads to more expensive problems later. Aging systems are more likely to fail, which can result in emergency repairs, service disruptions, and higher long-term costs. Planned and phased investment is a more cost-effective and reliable approach.

No. Projects needed to serve new development are not funded by utility rates. Instead, growth-related infrastructure is funded through development impact fees and connection charges paid by developers. Utility rates are used to maintain and replace the existing system that serves current customers.