Bakersfield, Calif. — Residents of Bakersfield are raising their voices against a proposed dramatic increase in sewer rates that could see costs soar from $239 to $950 annually, marking an almost 300% hike. Many are concerned about the financial burden this increase would impose, especially on seniors and families already struggling to make ends meet.
The City of Bakersfield has sent notices to approximately 106,000 properties regarding the proposed rate hike, which the city council has approved through a 3-2 vote. Public Information Officer Joe Conroy stated, "Staff determined that increase was needed. These costs for maintenance and keeping up the system is actually increasing much faster than we expected." However, this reasoning has not sat well with many residents.
Linda Goncalves, a Bakersfield resident and senior citizen, expressed her shock at the proposed increase, stating, "What a bad time, were they even thinking?" She emphasized the impact of this increase on those living on fixed incomes, saying, "We depend on things like our retirement, social security, which right now we're feeling really insecure about and so this is just piling it on."
Residents have until May 28 to submit written protests against the proposed rates, with the requirement that more than 53,000 protests must be filed to block the increase. The city has highlighted the importance of participation in this process, reminding residents that under Proposition 218, local governments must obtain voter approval for new or increased financial decisions.
To successfully protest the rate hike, residents must submit a letter that includes their assessor's parcel number, the address of the parcel, and the name and wet signature of the property owner. The deadline for these submissions coincides with the public hearing on May 28, where public comments will also be accepted.
Councilman Eric Arias, who voted against the proposed rate increase, shared his concern for constituents, stating, "I voted against the sewer and the water rate increases simply because I know that families are already struggling, and to continue to add to that struggle, now is just not the right time for an increase." His comments reflect a growing sentiment among residents who feel that the timing of such a rate increase is inappropriate.
While some council members, like Larry Koman, have chosen not to comment publicly on the proposal due to the impending vote, the council's decision has sparked significant backlash from the community. Many residents feel that the council should reconsider the hike, given its potential impact on the financial well-being of families and seniors in the area.
Goncalves implored council members to rethink their decision, urging them to prioritize citizens’ needs over financial decisions that could exacerbate existing hardships. "Please go back and do your homework. Think about the citizens instead of passing the first thing that you think you could get past people," she said, echoing the sentiments of many in the community who feel overlooked.
The proposed sewer rate increase has raised questions about the city’s financial management and priorities, with residents calling for transparency and accountability. As the May 28 deadline approaches, the community is mobilizing to ensure their voices are heard, hoping to prevent what they see as an unjust financial burden.
In the meantime, city officials are preparing for the public hearing, where residents will have the opportunity to voice their concerns further. The outcome of this hearing could significantly impact the financial landscape for many Bakersfield residents, particularly those on fixed incomes.
As the city navigates this contentious issue, it remains to be seen whether the voices of concerned citizens will be enough to halt the proposed rate hike. With many residents feeling the pressure of rising costs in various aspects of their lives, the sewer rate increase has become a focal point for broader discussions about affordability and municipal responsibility.
In conclusion, the proposed sewer rate increase in Bakersfield has ignited a wave of protests from residents who are worried about the financial implications of such a drastic hike. With the deadline for protests looming, the community is rallying together to make their voices heard in hopes of influencing the council's final decision.
