Sewer rates may soon increase in Los Osos.
The San Luis Obispo County Department of Public Works has proposed a five-year plan to increase rates starting July 1, 2020.
If approved, a single family home would see a $10.42 increase per month in the first year.
That's about 6% more each month for the first two years, then a 3% inflation factor through year five.
The Los Osos Water Recycling Facility went online in 2016. It was created to deliver treated wastewater for irrigation and to promote sustainability.
Years prior, in 2010, a usage rate was approved based on estimated operational costs and winter water consumption.
Fast-forward to 2020 and that 10-year-old rate is due to go up.
A public meeting was held Thursday so residents could learn more about the proposed sewer rate increase.
"Some people are shocked and I think some people are very angry because they did come here to either live out their lives and retire but they may not be able to afford to stay," said Julie Tacker of Los Osos.
Here are the next steps:
Feb. 25
- Introduce proposed rate ordinance to County Board of Supervisors
45 days prior to public hearing
- Mail notice of proposed rate increase
April 21
- Public Hearing at BOS
- Rate increase approved or protested
July 1
- Approved rate increase takes effect
