Arcata Delays Water and Wastewater Rate Hearing to March 18

City officials moved the public hearing on Jan. 5, delaying consideration of a package of water and wastewater rate changes now set for March 18. The proposal would increase the variable water charge from $7.15 to $10.33 per hundred cubic feet and replace the current wastewater billing structure with flat monthly wastewater fees for many single-family customers. Adoption of the ordinance is projected for April if the council approves the change after hearings.

Officials say the adjustments respond to mounting costs tied to aging systems, and to finance a multi-million-dollar replacement of an aging steel waterline. City staff estimate the result will be a modest rise in monthly household bills; the average residential account is projected to see about a 14% increase over current levels. The exact impact will vary by household depending on water use and the household’s current wastewater billing tier.

Community members have a mechanism to contest the proposal. Under state law, affected customers may file written protests against rate increases; if protests represent a majority of affected parcels or accounts, the city is barred from implementing the change. Protests typically must be submitted before or at the final public hearing to be counted. Residents should consult official city notices for the precise protest form, filing address, and deadline language. The March 18 hearing will be the key opportunity to deliver or confirm protests before council action.

Comparisons with neighboring systems matter for households weighing the change. While Arcata’s proposed per-unit water charge would rise substantially, it remains within the spectrum of Humboldt County utilities, though some smaller, independent systems continue to charge lower per-unit rates. Monthly effects depend on both water consumption and whether a household moves from tiered wastewater billing to the proposed flat fee.

Next steps include public outreach and presentations by city staff in the lead-up to the March 18 hearing, followed by a potential ordinance vote in April. Residents seeking to influence the outcome should review the city’s mailed notices, attend the hearing, and, if opposed, file a timely written protest according to the instructions supplied by the city. Robust participation will determine whether the proposed increases move forward as the city balances infrastructure needs against household affordability.