| Proposed Rate Increase for Phoenix Water Services and Stormwater Excise Tax | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/water-services/2694 | Water Services | | 3/16/2023 7:45:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/2694/Newsroom_Water_WaterRatesIncrease.png | | Proposed Rate Increase for Phoenix Water Services and Stormwater Excise Tax | <div class="ExternalClass01A7DAC224164FCDB74A006D3B206F98"><html>
<div>The Phoenix Water Services Dept. is proposing a rate increase to address rising costs for water and wastewater services. While the increase is necessary to meet inflationary pressures affecting utilities across the nation, Phoenix will still have some of the most affordable water services compared to other large cities, and customers who conserve water will be able to lessen the impact of the higher rates. There is also a request to increase the Stormwater Excise Tax to fund the City's compliance with new requirements for preventing pollution from entering waterways.<br></div>
<div>
<br>
</div>
<div>
<strong>Water and Wastewater Rates</strong>
</div>
<div>
<br>
</div>
<div>Preliminary estimates show the average residential customer will see an increase for water service (Water Usage Fee) of approximately 6.5% or $2 in October 2023, with additional increases in March 2024 (6.5%) and March 2025 (13%).</div>
<div>
<br>
</div>
<div>For wastewater service, the average residential customer will see an increase of approximately 6.5% or $1.60 in October 2023 with additional increases in March 2024 (6.5%) and March 2025 (7%).</div>
<div>
<br>
</div>
<div>Changes to the water and wastewater rates impact everyone differently, and there are many factors that determine how much each customer pays.</div>
<div>
<br>
</div>
<div>
<table class="ms-rteTable-default" width="100%" cellspacing="0">
<tbody>
<tr style="text-align:center;">
<td style="width:25%;" class="ms-rteTable-default"><strong>Date</strong><br></td>
<td style="width:25%;" class="ms-rteTable-default">
<div style="">
<strong>Water </strong>
</div>
<div style="">
<strong>Increase</strong>
<br>
</div>
</td>
<td style="width:25%;" class="ms-rteTable-default">
<div style="">
<strong>Wastewater </strong>
</div>
<div style="">
<strong>Increase </strong>
<br>
</div>
</td>
<td style="width:25%;" class="ms-rteTable-default">
<div style="">
<strong>Stormwater </strong>
</div>
<div>
<strong>Excise Tax</strong>
<br>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="text-align:center;">
<td class="ms-rteTable-default">October 2023<br></td>
<td style="" class="ms-rteTable-default">6.5%<br></td>
<td style="" class="ms-rteTable-default"><span style="font-size:13.3333px;">6.5%</span><br></td>
<td class="ms-rteTable-default">$0.25/month<br></td>
</tr>
<tr style="text-align:center;">
<td class="ms-rteTable-default">March 2024<br></td>
<td style="" class="ms-rteTable-default"><span style="font-size:13.3333px;">6.5%</span><br></td>
<td style="" class="ms-rteTable-default"><span style="font-size:13.3333px;">6.5%</span><br></td>
<td class="ms-rteTable-default">----------------<br></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align:center;" class="ms-rteTable-default">March 2025<br></td>
<td style="text-align:center;" class="ms-rteTable-default">13%<br></td>
<td style="text-align:center;" class="ms-rteTable-default">7%<br></td>
<td class="ms-rteTable-default"> -----------------<br></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br>
</div>
<div>
<br>
</div>
<div>
<strong>Water Allowance and Conservation</strong>
<br>
</div>
<div>
<br>
</div>
<div>The proposal also includes changing the water allowance structure to encourage water conservation, which could result in some customers paying an additional amount of approximately $4 more beginning in October 2023. The Phoenix Water Services Dept. has a seasonal structure for rates where charges are higher in the hotter seasons and lower in the cooler seasons. It is designed to encourage water conservation and discourage excessive water use in the summer when outdoor water use increases. The City of Phoenix declared a <a href="/newsroom/water-services/2363" target="_blank"><strong>Stage 1 Water Alert</strong></a> on June 1, 2022, and that alert is still in place. With conditions on the Colorado River expected to worsen, Phoenix Water customers must prioritize conservation.</div>
<div>
<br>
</div>
<div>
<table class="ms-rteTable-default" width="100%" cellspacing="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width:50%;" class="ms-rteTable-default">
<strong></strong>
<span style="font-size:13.3333px;">
<strong>Current Volume Allowance</strong>
</span>
<br>
</td>
<td style="width:50%;" class="ms-rteTable-default"><span style="font-size:13.3333px;"><strong>P</strong><strong>roposed Volume Allowance</strong></span><br></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="ms-rteTable-default"><p>4,488 gallons (6 Units) - October through May (Cooler Months)<br></p></td>
<td class="ms-rteTable-default"><p>3,740 gallons (5 Units) - October through May (Cooler Months)<br></p></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="ms-rteTable-default"><p>7,480 gallons (10 Units) – June through September (Warmer Months) <br></p></td>
<td class="ms-rteTable-default"><p>5,984 gallons (8 Units) – June through September (Warmer Months) <br></p></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="ms-rteTable-default"><span style="font-size:13.3333px;">1 Unit = 748 gallons</span><br></td>
<td class="ms-rteTable-default"></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br>
</div>
<div>
<strong>Stormwater Excise Tax</strong>
<br>
</div>
<div>
<br>
</div>
<div>The Stormwater Excise Tax funds the City’s compliance with a required Clean Water Act Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit from the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality for operation of the storm drain system. This permit is required to prevent pollution from entering our washes and rivers and requires actions by the City, such as infrastructure maintenance, water quality monitoring, and inspections. As of 2021, the City is operating under a new permit with new and expanded requirements. An increase of $0.25 per month for single family residences (5/8 or 3/4 size water meters) is being proposed to fund the City’s compliance with these legal requirements. This increase equates to an additional $3.00/year for these accounts. The proposed increase for larger meter sizes is scaled at a graduated rate using the equivalent dwelling unit methodology.</div>
<div>
<br>
</div>
<div>
<strong>Public Outreach</strong>
<br>
</div>
<div>
<br>
</div>
<div>City of Phoenix Water Services staff will attend public meetings to gather comments and provide information on the proposed increases. For the meeting schedule and more information about the proposed rate increase, please visit <a href="https://phoenix.gov/proposedrates" target="_blank"><strong>phoenix.gov/proposedrates</strong></a>.</div>
<div>
<br>
</div>
<div>We understand that any rate increase may be a burden for some customers, especially during these challenging times. We want to assure you that we are committed to providing high-quality water service at the lowest possible cost. We also offer various assistance programs and payment options for customers who may need help with their bills. For more information, please visit <a href="/humanservices" target="_blank"><strong>https://www.phoenix.gov/humanservices</strong></a><strong>.</strong></div>
<div>
<br>
</div>
<div>Michael Gertzman</div>
<div>Senior Public Information Officer </div>
<div>Water Services</div>
<div>Cell: 602-245-4143 (call or text) </div>
<div>E-mail: michael.gertzman@phoenix.gov<br></div>
<p>
<br>
</p>
</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/waterservices | News | water-services |
| This Spring, Bloom and Learn with New Landscaping Classes! | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/water-services/2689 | Water Services | | 3/15/2023 7:00:00 AM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/2689/Newsroom_hydrate_phx_2023.jpg | | This Spring, Bloom and Learn with New Landscaping Classes! | <div class="ExternalClassF470479940A140E59BBDEF7F696F469F"><html>
<div>This spring, homeowners can take their landscaping skills to the next level with cutting-edge techniques taught by water-efficiency experts in partnership with Phoenix Water Services, Watershed Management Group, and SRP.<br></div>
<div>
<br>
</div>
<div>With most residential water use occurring outside, it's crucial to incorporate modern landscape designs and learn about alternative water collection and reuse to reduce water usage.</div>
<div>
<br>
</div>
<div>Don't miss out on this opportunity to gain valuable information and skills. </div>
<div>The free and in-person classes will be held on select Saturdays in April and May at Mesquite, Burton Barr, and Saguaro Libraries. As class sizes are limited, it's important to register early to secure your spot. Join Phoenix's Conservation Community and sign up for a class today!</div>
<div>
<br>
</div>
<div>
<a target="_blank" href="https://calendar.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/event/10330248">
<strong>Designing a Water Harvesting Landscape </strong>
</a>
</div>
<div>Saturday, April 8 | 10am - 11:30am | Mesquite Library</div>
<div>
<br>
</div>
<div>
<a target="_blank" href="https://calendar.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/event/10330927"><strong>Selecting Native Plants for Multiple Benefits </strong></a>
<br>
</div>
<div>Saturday, April 22 | 10am - 11:30am | Mesquite Library</div>
<div>
<br>
</div>
<div>
<a target="_blank" href="https://calendar.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/event/10330987">
<strong>Sizing and Installing Tanks </strong>
</a>
</div>
<div>Saturday, April 29 | 10am - 11:30am | Mesquite Library</div>
<div>
<br>
</div>
<div>
<a target="_blank" href="https://calendar.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/event/10331050">
<strong>Supporting Healthy Landscapes </strong>
</a>
</div>
<div>Saturday, May 6 | 10am - 11:30am | Burton Barr Library<br></div>
<div>
<br>
</div>
<div>
<a target="_blank" href="https://calendar.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/event/10331109">
<strong>Irrigating with Greywater </strong>
</a>
<br>
</div>
<div>Saturday, May 13 | 10am - 11:30am | Saguaro Library</div>
<div>To learn more about the City of Phoenix Water Services Department conservation efforts and what you can do as an individual or homeowner, please visit <a target="_blank" href="/waterservices/resourcesconservation/"><strong>phoenix.gov/wrc.</strong></a><strong> </strong></div>
<div>
<br>
</div>
<div>Media Contact:</div>
<div>Angela Serda </div>
<div>Public Information Specialist</div>
<div>Phoenix Water Services Dept.</div>
<div>Cell: 623-499-8919<br></div>
<div>Email: <a href="mailto:angela.serda@phoenix.gov%2520" target="_blank"><strong>angela.serda@phoenix.gov </strong></a><br></div>
<p>
<br>
</p>
</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/waterservices | News | water-services |
| Volunteers Needed for Water Wrangler Conservation Program | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/water-services/2635 | Water Services | | 1/26/2023 4:58:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/2635/Wrangler_NR_BecomeAWranglerb.png | | Volunteers Needed for Water Wrangler Conservation Program | <div class="ExternalClass21C10981A79B4FD69DCEF3DF0B29C5BB"><html>
<div>Phoenix Water is asking community members to donate their time to help others learn about the importance of water conservation. <br></div>
<div>
<br>
</div>
<div>The continued Colorado River water shortage is a stark reminder of how important it is for everyone to reduce their water use. The innovative Water Wrangler program will teach people about water and empower them to share their knowledge with others. It is an excellent opportunity for community-minded people looking to be a positive influence. </div>
<div>
<br>
</div>
<div>The Water Wrangler program includes a 12-hour training program that spans four sessions and covers Water 101, Utility Operations, Water Resources and Conservation, and Outreach Education. After completing Phoenix Water Wrangler Institute, participants receive a Certificate of Participation and a shirt. In addition, they will get opportunities to serve as community representatives at local events, public meetings, and City of Phoenix programs. </div>
<div>
<br>
</div>
<div>Periods of drought are common in the desert southwest, sometimes enduring for decades. To be part of the solution, community members must adapt to the desert lifestyle and do their part to be water smart. Through information sharing and community engagement, the Phoenix Water Wrangler Institute will activate water conservation for the benefit of everyone in our community. </div>
<div>
<br>
</div>
<div>To apply, <a href="/waterservices/waterwrangler" target="_blank"><strong>submit an online application</strong></a> by Jan. 31 for the virtual training. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>These are the requirements to participate: <br></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Volunteers who are at least 18 years or older<br></li>
<li>A high school graduate/GED equivalent, or higher</li>
<li>An excellent communicator </li>
<li>Able to fully complete pre-service, required training</li>
<li>Comfortable with public speaking, familiar with community development, and experienced in collaborating across diverse groups</li>
<li>Creative, responsible, flexible, and self-motivated </li>
<li>Passionate about learning and promoting water conservation and sustainability in our desert city<br></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<strong>Where:</strong> Virtual via WebEx (or another digital platform).<br></div>
<div>
<br>
</div>
<div>
<strong>When:</strong> Trainings are on Thursday evenings starting February 16 to March 9. Volunteer opportunities range across weekdays, weekday evenings, and weekends.</div>
<div>
<br>
</div>
<div>
<strong>Deadline:</strong> Registration for the Spring 2023 cohort is now open until January 31, 2023. All four training sessions are required to complete the program.<br></div>
<div>
<br>
</div>
<div>
<strong>Apply:</strong> <a target="_blank" href="https://phoenix.gov/waterwrangler"><strong>phoenix.gov/waterwrangler</strong></a> <br></div>
<div> </div>
<div>Media Contact: <br></div>
<div>Angela Serda </div>
<div>Public Information Specialist </div>
<div>Cell: (623) 499-8919 (call or text) </div>
<div>Email: <a target="_blank" href="mailto:angela.serda@phoenix.gov"><strong>angela.serda@phoenix.gov</strong></a><strong> </strong></div>
<div> <br></div>
<div>Volunteer Program Contact: <br></div>
<div>Emilie Brown<br></div>
<div>Water Resource Specialist </div>
<div>Phone: 602-495-5653</div>
<div>Email: <a target="_blank" href="mailto:emilie.brown@phoenix.gov"><strong>emilie.brown@phoenix.gov</strong></a><br></div>
<p>
<br>
</p>
</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/waterservices | News | water-services |
