Tucson Holds Public Meetings on Proposed Rate Increases

The City of Tucson is engaging with the community through a series of meetings regarding proposed rate adjustments for several key city services. These include Tucson Water, Environmental Services, Transportation & Mobility Services, and Planning and Development.

Impact on Residents and Businesses

While many of the proposed increases primarily affect commercial businesses, residents will also see changes in costs related to water usage and waste collection. This prompted the city to hold these meetings prior to a final vote by the city council.

Resident Concerns and Preparation

Midtown residents Joe and Lori Atchabowski attended a recent meeting to understand the potential impact on their bills. “To see how it all functions, what the improvements they’re going to do and what it’s going to cost,” Joe and Lori Atchabowski said. They expressed a desire to be proactive and prepared for any changes.

“We are both of the same mind to be prepared for the future, rather than react to something bad that happens,” Joe Atchabowski added.

Details of Proposed Rate Changes

Tucson Water is proposing a 3.5% increase starting next year. This translates to an average increase of approximately $2 per month on water bills by fiscal year 2027, rising to $7 per month by 2030.

Ensuring Water Reliability

Sylvia Amparano, Tucson Water Director, explained that the additional revenue will be used to maintain a safe and reliable water supply. “We have different types of projects to make sure that the reliability of the system is in place and that we can serve our customers for many years in the future,” Amparano stated.

Environmental Services Adjustments

Waste collection bills are also expected to increase by roughly 75 cents for 95 gallons of trash and alleyway cleaning in the next fiscal year. Environmental Services will also implement a flat $3.00 “Clean City” fee to fund efforts to address graffiti removal and homeless encampments.

Carlos De La Torre emphasized the importance of these funds, stating, “So it’s really just continue to provide the services that we all want and we all deserve, all the residents deserve and want.”

Planning & Development Fees

Changes are also proposed for Planning & Development, including new fees on various city permits. However, these adjustments will largely impact local businesses.

Upcoming Vote and Implementation

Mayor Regina Romero and the city council are scheduled to vote on the proposed rates on May 19. If approved, the rate increases will take effect on July 1. Further information regarding the proposed rates for each department is available here.