Residents respond to utility rate increase push in the Southwest Valley
James Goldmeer/Independent Newsmedia
West Valley customers could see water and wastewater bills rise sharply as regulators weigh Liberty Utilities’ request at its Arizona Corporation Commission hearing.
A proposed rate increase by Liberty Utilities that would significantly raise water and wastewater bills for West Valley residents is moving into the next phase, with a formal hearing before the Arizona Corporation Commission drawing strong reaction from local officials and customers.
The hearing, which started on March 23, is focused on the company’s request to boost revenue to recover nearly $200 million in infrastructure investments. Liberty Utilities Litchfield Park, which serves customers in Litchfield Park, Goodyear, Glendale and Avondale, is seeking increases tied to about $197 million in system upgrades and regulatory compliance costs.
If approved, the new rates could take effect in the third quarter of 2026. Under the proposal, average residential water bills would increase by about 43%, while wastewater bills could rise by roughly 54%.
Company officials say the increases are necessary to recover costs from major capital improvements, particularly in wastewater infrastructure.
“The case really carries the most significant amount of investment in infrastructure,” said Regina Wise, a Liberty Water representative. “Wastewater is the major driver and the rate increases that folks are seeing.”
Of the total investment, about $145 million is tied to wastewater projects, while roughly $52 million has been spent on water system improvements, including new wells aimed at strengthening supply reliability.
“We’re investing in our community,” said Liberty President Moses Thompson. “A good portion of that is these wells that provide additional water sources that make us resilient and consistent for our customers.”
Local officials urge caution, phased approach
During the hearing, Litchfield Park City Manager Matthew Williams said the scale of the increase could be difficult for residents to absorb all at once, even if infrastructure investments are necessary.
Matthew Williams, city manager of Litchfield Park, urged regulators to consider spreading the increase over time.
“It’s much easier to swallow 3 or 5% every year than it is 50%,” Williams said.
Williams also pointed to ongoing concerns about water pressure.
“I would love to see the law change … to maintain a minimal pressure of 40 pounds,” he said. “The current state law is 20, and 20 is not sufficient.”
Residents cite affordability concerns
Public comments submitted to the Commission reflect widespread concern about the financial impact of the proposed increases, particularly among seniors and families on fixed incomes.
Marcie Patrovich, a Goodyear resident, described the strain on families.
“Increasing bills for those things that are required to survive will negatively impact the local businesses and have a negative impact on our cities’ economies,” Patrovich said.
Corinna Lopardo, a Litchfield Park resident, warned about broader impacts.
“The cumulative impact of utility rate hikes … can be devastating for households on fixed incomes, seniors, and working families,” Lopardo said.
Beyond cost, residents also raised concerns about system reliability and safety, pointing to past service issues.
Timothy Morris, a Litchfield Park resident, described severe pressure problems.
“Residents experienced near-zero water pressure, with some faucets delivering little to no output,” Morris said. “System pressure dropped as low as 4 psi.”
Paul Tighe, a Litchfield Park resident, criticized service reliability.
“Liberty has demonstrated poor management … resulting in unsafe low water pressure conditions (and) inadequate supply for fire suppression,” Tighe said.
What’s next
In addition to base rate increases, Liberty is requesting approval for a temporary surcharge to recover rate case expenses and authorization to issue up to $65 million in long-term debt. The company is also proposing a formula rate plan that would allow for smaller, more frequent adjustments in the future.
Regulators with the Arizona Corporation Commission will continue reviewing the proposal, along with public input, before making a final decision.
Visit azcc.gov for more information.
James Goldmeer Reporter | Goodyear & Litchfield Park
Meet James James Goldmeer joined Independent Newsmedia, Inc., USA, in July 2024, starting their career as a reporter in Goodyear and Litchfield Park.
Community: James grew up in the West Valley, calling Avondale home and going to school in Glendale and Peoria. Returning to the community after university, James plans to get involved in everything arts and culture, and civil rights.
Education: Northern Arizona University a bachelor's degree in Journalism, a certificate in Professional Communications, with a minor in English.
Random Fact: James spent half a year as an intern for the Arizona House of Representatives communication team, working with legislators to inform the public through press releases and social media.
Hobbies: James collects postcards and old books, reads memoirs and attends local jazz shows.
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