News Details

WVWD Board Approves New Rate Structure to Ensure Water Supply Reliability and Long-Term Financial Sustainability

November 15, 2024

Walnut, CA — On November 14, 2024, following a public hearing, Walnut Valley Water District (WVWD) Board of Directors approved a new rate structure addressing urgent financial and infrastructure challenges while seeking to minimize the impact on its customers. This decision follows a detailed financial review aimed at balancing affordability with the need for sustainable water services.

Developed with IB Consulting, the new rate structure addresses a projected $3.3 million deficit by 2025. It includes adjustments to reserve levels, meter charges, and water usage rates to align with rising costs and state conservation goals. The anticipated increase for the average monthly customer bill is about $12 a month in the first year, with future adjustments based on individual water usage. The rate adjustments are set to take effect on January 1, 2025, with the first bills reflecting the new rates arriving in February 2025.

Key Components of the New Rate Structure

The new rate structure includes the following elements:

• Decreased Reserves: Reserves are reduced from a 5-year target to a 2-year minimum, allowing for a more manageable rate adjustment while maintaining funds for emergencies and projects.
• Monthly Meter Charge: This charge will increase across all meter sizes to support ongoing infrastructure maintenance.
• Water Usage Rates: Rates for potable and recycled water reflect increased costs of imported water, and single-family residential tiers are adjusted to align with state conservation regulations.
• Fireline and Pump Zone Charges: Additional charges will apply for specific customers, based on meter size and elevation requirements.
• Drought Rate Surcharge: Activated only during declared droughts or water shortages, this surcharge encourages efficient water use during such events.

Customer Assistance Programs and Resources

WVWD understands that rate adjustments can impact household budgets and offers eligible customers several paths to financial assistance:

• Affordable Rate Program: Qualified residential customers can apply for a rate reduction through WVWD’s Affordable Rate Program. Most customers on the CARE program for gas and electricity should qualify.
• Payment Extensions: Customers who need more time to pay can request payment extensions to accommodate their needs.

For more information, contact WVWD’s Customer Service Department at (909) 595-7554 or by email at cservice@walnutvalleywater.gov.

Rebates to Support Water Conservation

In addition to financial assistance, WVWD offers a variety of rebates to help customers reduce water use and conserve resources:

• Turf Replacement: $3 per square foot for eligible turf replacement.
• Pool Cover Rebate: $50 account credit.
• Flume: Leak detection and water usage monitor.
• Rachio Controller: Weather-informed irrigation controller.
• Water-Efficient Appliances: Rebates are available for water-efficient laundry machines, toilets, sprinklers, irrigation controllers, and more.

For full details and eligibility, visit https://walnutvalleywater.gov/customer-service/rebates/.

Community Engagement and Transparency

WVWD engaged with the community through public meetings held on August 22, September 5, and September 19, allowing customers to provide input and learn about the new rate structure. Further informational meetings were conducted in October and early November to ensure customers understood the potential impacts on their bills.

Additional Information

With the new rate structure set to take effect January 2025, WVWD encourages customers to explore available assistance programs and rebates to help manage monthly bills. For more information, visit www.walnutvalleywater.gov/lets-dive-in or contact WVWD’s customer service.