Proposed Sewer Rate Increases

Expressed frustration over rising sewer and tax bills, noting that increasing costs hurt working families.

Argued that a 300% sewer rate increase would impose an unreasonable financial burden on retired seniors living on fixed Social Security incomes.

Questioned whether city officials properly maintained sewer facilities over the years and demanded proof before raising rates.

Warned that landlords will pass sewer rate hikes down to renters, creating severe housing instability for low-income tenants.

Presented an alternative expert analysis on behalf of Kern County showing that infrastructure goals can be met with a much smaller rate increase using revenue bonds.

Urged the city council to partner with Kern County to avoid an excessive money grab from taxpayers.

Asked the city to establish a low-income sewer rate assistance program and ensure future growth pays for itself under Prop 218.

Expressed concern that Spanish-speaking residents lacked adequate notification and urged the council to reject the rate increase.

Protested the sewer fee increase and suggested that capital infrastructure projects should be funded through bonds.

Argued that existing residents should not have to pay for sewer infrastructure intended to support new developments.

Spoke on behalf of the Leadership Council for Justice and Accountability, arguing that future wastewater plant expansion costs are unfairly shifting to current ratepayers in violation of Proposition 218.

Pointed out high local unemployment and living costs, urging the council to establish a low-income rate assistance program using general fund dollars if the rate goes forward.

A city solid waste operator and union member questioned why infrastructure investment was delayed and asked that corporations pay their fair share instead of overburdening working families.

A senior librarian and union member urged a 'no' vote, noting that East Bakersfield families are already struggling and shouldn't bear the brunt of catch-up infrastructure costs.

A long-time resident questioned past inspection protocols and warned that flat fee increases disproportionately harm older homeowners on fixed incomes.

Shared that as a retiree living on a fixed income, the massive rate hike over five years will make life very tight, asking the council to find alternative funding sources.

Spoke in Spanish to respectfully oppose the rate increase on behalf of Spanish-speaking homeowners who lack adequate representation in the process.

Expressed opposition on behalf of local business owners and Hispanic residents who are struggling to make ends meet amidst rising costs.

Expressed concern that everyday residents will struggle to afford the proposed sewer rate hikes and urged the city to find ways to make them more affordable.

Speaking as an attorney for Kern County, presented a formal protest against the rate increases, warning of a nearly 400% jump over five years and calling for better generational equity and cost spreading.