DWP’s Rate Hike Request Reduced to 3.6% Increase

The Los Angeles Water and Power Commission pared back its request for water rate increases to 3.6% on Friday, but the City Council postponed consideration until Tuesday.

The water agency originally had sought an 11% increase to help meet a deficit in the wake of the public’s overwhelming response to water conservation. The council balked and delayed action four times last month before asking DWP to submit a 3.6% hike.

The smaller base-rate increase would raise about $11 million, according to DWP officials, who are seeking another $18 million through an increase in the drought surcharge. The utility proposes to cut $175 million in proposed improvements and maintenance over the next 18 months.