Rates And New Connections On T.U.D. Agenda
Sonora, CA — T.U.D.’s water rates are below many other suppliers in the region, and changes could be coming to meet the bottom line, and make needed infrastructure improvements.
While no final decisions will be made this week, on Tuesday the Board of Directors will discuss various scenarios for increasing water rates. T.U.D.’s base rate for residential water is $36.38 per month, which is a bargain in relation to many other surrounding districts. Clarke Broadcasting reached out to various water suppliers in the region to see how T.U.D. compares. Calaveras County Water District’s base rate is $56.78, Twain Harte Community Services District is $44.22, Union Public Utility District (Murphys) is $42.00, the City of Angels Camp is $39.75, Groveland Community Services District is $50.64, and the Mariposa Public Utility District is $26.65.
T.U.D. Staff had initially proposed a five year rate increase back in 2009. It would have increased water rates by $7.09 during year one and $6.23 the following four years. Following the election of a new board, however, the rate increase was significantly reduced, resulting in many infrastructure projects being delayed. Complicating the budget matters, the district has been limited on how much water it could sell over the past couple of years due to the drought and mandatory conservation measures.
A report from T.U.D. General Manager Tom Scesa notes that in order to meet costs, improve infrastructure, and build up reserves, a $19.50 per month increase could be needed.
Also at Tuesday’s meeting the Board of Directors will vote whether to approve an agreement regarding the construction of a water main extension for a new Dollar General Store in Soulsbyville, and an extension to serve Sonora High School in anticipation of its Measure J Bond projects. One of the main additions is of course the aquatics center.
Tuesday’s meetings starts at 2pm. You can watch live video in the multimedia section of myMotherLode.com.
Editors Note: The original story posted that Groveland’s rates are $30.06, however, bond fees placed on customers push the price up to $50.64.
