Homeowners throughout Sonoma County could see their sewer bills climb by nearly nine percent this summer under a new proposal from Sonoma Water.
The Press Democrat reports officials say the rate hikes, affecting eight sanitation districts from Sea Ranch to Penngrove, are necessary to combat rising electricity costs and maintain crumbling, decades-old infrastructure.
The proposal has sparked backlash from residents in West County, who already pay some of the highest rates in the state and fear further housing displacement. While the agency is seeking millions in federal grants to modernize treatment plants and prevent future sewage spills, leaders insist the increases are unavoidable to keep systems running.
A public hearing is scheduled for May 12th, and concerned parcel owners have until May 11th to submit written protests.