COUNCILMEMBER CHRIS CATE

DISTRICT 6

STATEMENT
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Contact: Rebecca Kelley RKelley@sandiego.gov
C: (619) 384-5269
Date: September 15, 2015

Potable, Fire and Recycled Water Rate Adjustments, Cost of Service Study and Proposition 218
Notice and Hearing (Item 331)
San Diego, CA: The current water billing system is flawed. The existing method used to charge
ratepayers neither rewards customers for reducing water usage, nor is a reliable and sustainable
system for our City's Public Utilities Department. Today's action is the first step in having the
discussion to explore all options to revise this system. I proposed that we review an alternative rate
structure; one that does not penalize ratepayers for heeding the call of conservation, but one that
rewards their efforts. We need a system that incentivizes those that have gone to great lengths to
reduce their water use, as opposed to increasing rates each year. My proposal asks that this study
and the resulting options and impacts be completed and presented to the City Council by June 2017.
At that time, we will receive input from residents and then consideration by the City Council for
implementation.
About Councilmember Chris Cate:
Chris Cate is an advocate and voice for all residents in District 6. Chris proudly represents the
neighborhoods of Clairemont Mesa, Kearny Mesa, Mira Mesa, Miramar, Park Village and Sorrento
Valley. Chris will prioritize infrastructure improvements, recruit and retain quality police officers
and help residents engage with elected officials, which will improve the quality of life in the
neighborhoods of District 6. Visit www.sandiego.gov/citycouncil/cd6/ or call (619) 236-6616 to
learn more about Chris, his staff and District 6.
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