City Manager Wally Bobkiewicz noted that all financial reporting on the enterprise funds - kept separate from the General Fund - is available to the public and is contained in the annual budget. The sewer increase is just the first, he added. “We’re looking at increases for the next several years” to pay off bonds that will fund the new wastewater treatment plant.“The previous council borrowed $1 million” from the wastewater fund reserve, and Victoria asked if the funds have been repaid. Finance Director Tina Rivera said that the last payment should be made in Fiscal Year 2006-2007, and that the city has been paying interest comparable to market rates.Later in the discussion, Councilman Ray Luna questioned if “it is vital for us to have the refuse increase at this time.” Finley said that, although efficiency measures have been implemented, the refuse fund balance “projected at the end of this year essentially will be zero” without the increase.“I hate to see rates going up, but we can’t afford not to,” said Vice Mayor Rick Cook. “We have to have a new sewer plant and need to get rid of our trash...it’s too bad we all have to bear that brunt,” especially since the city is under pressure from the state to construct the new treatment plant.
City Council approves trash, sewer monthly rate increases
June 29, 2005
Santa Paula City Council
Fee increases for wastewater and trash pickup were approved by the City Council at the June 20 meeting that featured a lone speaker who questioned the increases.
By Peggy KellySanta Paula TimesFee increases for wastewater and trash pickup were approved by the City Council at the June 20 meeting that featured a lone speaker who questioned the increases.Public Works Director/City Engineer Cliff Finley told the council that staff was recommending a 33 percent increase for sewer services - an $8 jump from the present $24 monthly rate - to help fund the construction of the new approximately $50 million wastewater treatment plant. Refuse collection would go up $2 monthly to offset price increases for fuel and dump fees, as well as startup funding for truck replacement.Jesse Victoria said that many of his customers have expressed that they are opposed to the rate increases. “Basically, what we’re looking for is a little bit of accountability” on both policy and fund balances. “I think the council owes that accountability before we can endorse” any increases.
