July 29, 2024: ESCONDIDO, Calif. – Rincon del Diablo Municipal Water District leaders are developing plans and working quickly to minimize the impact of County-wide water rate increases. The action comes after Rincon officials received a briefing last month from the San Diego County Water Authority (SDCWA) outlining budget challenges for the coming year, and an SDCWA vote on Thursday to implement a 14 percent water rate hike across the County.
The SDCWA told Rincon’s leaders that external factors, including the water supply costs, detachment of two member agencies and increased rates from the Metropolitan Water District were all contributing to their increased costs. The SDCWA is taking measures to cut expenses in an effort to mitigate the impact on local water utilities.
“While the rates set by the SDCWA seem out of control, regulatory and inflationary pressures can no longer be absorbed – but we pledge to work closely with them to ensure our customers get the best rates possible given the economic realities,” said Clint Baze, General Manager of Rincon Water.
“Rincon Water is focused on delivering outstanding service and high-quality water to our customers. We have always operated with transparency, ensuring our customers understand the complexity of the water system and the costs associated with delivering water to their taps,” said James Murtland, President of Rincon Water’s Board of Directors.
Rincon Water will continue to keep customers and the community updated as it receives more information from SDCWA officials, Baze said.