EL PASO, TEXAS (KFOX14\/CBS4) \u2014 El Paso Water presented its proposed 2026-2027 budget to the city council, outlining a $1.2 billion plan that includes a 12% rate increase for all customers. <\/p>\n
Chief Financial Officer Jeff Tepsick said, “So this $1.2 billion budget, which is the largest budget in our history, is going to go to our capital improvement program.” The increase, if approved, would raise a typical residential customer’s monthly bill by about $10. The utility attributes the hike to a $770 million capital improvement program, which encompasses water supply, wastewater treatment, and flood control projects citywide.<\/p>\n
RECOMMENDED: El Paso Water plans new water lines to tackle water main breaks in East Montana<\/a><\/p>\n Jordan Salas reports on El Paso Water’s proposed rate hike<\/p>\n<\/p>\n Tepsick highlighted two major projects: the $300 million Pure Water Center, which he says will convert wastewater into 10 million gallons of potable water daily, and the expansion of the Bustamante wastewater treatment plant from 39 to 51 million gallons per day.<\/p>\n City Representative Art Fierro expressed concerns, stating, “Unfortunately, we’re in the situation right now where everybody’s trying to raise our rates and El Paso Water I don’t believe gave us the true facts under the reason why they need to raise rates.”<\/p>\n Tuesday’s city council agenda includes a directive for El Paso Water to hold eight community meetings before a final decision is made. Rep. Deanna Maldonado-Rocha emphasized the importance of community outreach, saying, “Now the second piece is now to go ahead and do the community outreach so it provides the information that’s necessary for the citizens of El Paso.”<\/p>\n RECOMMENDED: El Paso Water proposes rate hike, decision expected in January<\/a><\/p>\n Public opinion on the proposed increase is divided. Linda, a local resident, said, “I’m shocked… disappointed. I hope it doesn’t happen.” Meanwhile, Sergio, another resident, remarked, “I think that whatever increase that is for the benefit of the city should pass,” adding, “I don\u2019t think most people will be affected with ten dollars.”<\/p>\n El Paso Water has posted more information about the proposed budget, rate increase, and affordability options, which can be found here.<\/a><\/p>\n The proposed budget and rate increase will be reviewed by the El Paso Water Public Service Board on Jan. 14. If approved, the new rates would take effect March 1.<\/p>\n