water

Spoke representing the Epilepsy Foundation of Northern California, requesting community awareness for November as Epilepsy Awareness Month and offering free seizure first-aid training.

Expressed frustration over recent water rate increases and questioned why the city is only now cleaning up confusing municipal code language after raising rates.

Asked technical questions regarding zero-emission bus fleet regulations and water rate structures.

Asked about drought rates, water conservation incentives without tiered rates, and low water pressure in Harlan Ranch.

Expressed worry that doubling water rates over the decade will hurt fixed-income and disabled residents.

Stated that volumetric water rates are increasing by 80% in the first year, creating a heavy burden on water users.

Criticized public notification methods and questioned energy cost projections and tier rate justifications.

Argued that developers should pay more for new water basins and infrastructure rather than leaning on existing residents.

Supported the staff water rate recommendation, noting that Clovis has historically maintained a well-run and fiscally responsible utility system.

Acknowledged infrastructure needs but emphasized that rising inflation and steep utility hikes hurt fixed-income families.

Expressed concern for struggling seniors and low-income residents trying to pay grocery and water bills.

Asked how illegal water theft from fire hydrants factors into rate increases and suggested tagging authorized trucks.

Requested that enterprise fund reports explicitly detail the costs imposed by state and federal regulatory requirements.

Expressed concerns and opposition regarding the city motto in the council chambers via a phone message.

Thanked staff and council for moving forward with a survey regarding chamber displays and noted community fundraising efforts, and later expressed frustration over government-driven cost increases during the water rate discussion.

Raised questions regarding Proposition 218 equity for small meter sizes compared to larger meters.

Voiced support for moving forward with the Proposition 218 water rate hearing process, noting that rates can be adjusted in future years if costs change.