New Year, Higher Bills: Rohnert Park Water Rates Soar

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Rohnert Park Residents Face Increased Water Rates in the New Year

Residents of Rohnert Park, California, can expect to see a significant increase in their monthly water bills starting in January. City officials have announced a series of new water rate adjustments that aim to address rising operational costs and the need for essential infrastructure upgrades.

On average, households will pay an additional $9.10 per month on their water bills over time. This increase is part of a multi-year plan designed to ensure the city can maintain its water system while meeting growing demands.

Rate Increases Over the Next Few Years

The rate adjustments will be implemented gradually, with the first increase coming in 2026. The proposed schedule includes:

• A 14 percent increase in 2026
• Annual increases of 9 percent in 2027
• 7 percent in 2028
• 6 percent in 2029

These increases are necessary to cover the costs associated with replacing aging pipes, upgrading wells and storage tanks, and modernizing customer meters. Officials emphasized that these projects are critical to maintaining a safe and reliable water supply for the community.

Reviewing Water Rates Regularly

Water rates in Rohnert Park are typically reviewed every three to five years to ensure the city can continue providing high-quality service while maintaining its infrastructure. According to city officials, the last rate review was conducted in 2021. Since then, costs have risen more quickly than anticipated due to several factors, including drought restrictions, inflation, and higher wholesale water prices.

The city relies on external sources for about 60 percent of its water supply, primarily from Sonoma Water. Recent rate hikes by Sonoma Water have further contributed to the financial pressure on Rohnert Park's budget.

Upcoming Infrastructure Projects

Several major infrastructure projects are planned as part of the city’s long-term strategy. These include:

• Replacing aging water pipes to prevent leaks and reduce water loss
• Upgrading existing wells and storage tanks to improve efficiency
• Installing modernized customer meters to enhance accuracy and data collection

These improvements are expected to make the water system more resilient and efficient in the long run.

Potential Funding Opportunities

Rohnert Park has also sought approximately $8 million in funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for improvements at the Well Tank Site. If the grant is approved, the city may reassess its rate structure to determine if any reductions could be made.

Conclusion

While the new water rates may come as a surprise to some residents, city officials stress that the changes are necessary to ensure the continued reliability and safety of the water supply. By investing in infrastructure and managing costs effectively, Rohnert Park aims to provide a sustainable water system for future generations.