Gilbert Town Council will host a public hearing on the proposed utility rate increases for water and solid waste & recycling services during the regularly scheduled council meeting at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 6.

Following the hearing, the Gilbert Town Council will vote on whether or not to adopt the proposed increases or any lesser increase.

If approved, the new rates for water and solid waste & recycling services will go into effect with the April 2024 billing cycle.

Council is considering a proposal that would increase the fee for solid waste & recycling services by $8.52 a month for an estimated 90% of residential customers, bringing their monthly bill to $27.55.

Council is considering a gradual rate increase for water services to reduce the immediate financial impact to residents and business owners in our community. This proposal will increase the average monthly residential water bill by $17 in April 2024, by approximately $13 in 2025, and by approximately $16 in 2026.

The impact of potential rate increases to each utility customer will vary. Gilbert customers can use the online utility bill calculator at gilbertaz.gov/billcalc to see how the rate increase will affect their monthly bill.

During the public hearing on Feb. 6, council will hear and receive written comments regarding the proposed utility rate increases. Residents can learn how to participate by  visiting the Gilbert Town Council webpage. 

All council meetings are also streamed live at gilbertaz.gov/GilbertLive. 

Gilbert routinely evaluates the fiscal health of utility services, including water, wastewater, environmental compliance, and solid waste and recycling to ensure quality services for its customers.  

Aging infrastructure, the Colorado River shortage and the change in water quality coming into our community have created significant challenges but Gilbert officials said they are committed to protecting our town’s ability to treat and deliver clean, safe and reliable drinking water to residents and businesses.  

Critical improvement projects, like the reconstruction of the North Water Treatment Plant, are underway while other essential projects are just beginning. Ongoing inflation and cost escalation have impacted and/or delayed these projects, leading to the proposal for utility rate increases.  

Council adopted a motion Nov. 28, to direct staff to publish a Final Rate Study and a Notice of Intention to increase water and solid waste & recycling fees and rates.

The proposed increases are based upon data indicating that such an increase is necessary to offset escalation in system operating and commodity costs, and to maintain fund balances to assure long term financial stability of these services.