To: Pleasanton City Council

We, the concerned residents of Pleasanton, urgently raise our voices against the unjustifiable water rate hike proposal that threatens to burden our community with exorbitant financial strain. 

Our water bill would potentially be increasing upto $1700+ (or more)per household on a yearly basis, adding a crushing annual burden. Pleasanton's water rate is skyrocketing by an alarming 300-700%.

These figures have been verified with City Staff, lending credibility to our concerns.

The lack of transparency and communication surrounding these huge increases has left us deeply worried and seeking accountability. It has come to our attention that the city has failed to accurately communicate the extent of the impending water rate hikes (providing only the 1st year monthly increase in examples cited)

Link: Pleasanton's Proposed Rates

 

While we recognize the need for responsible resource management, the current lack of clear justification and communication behind these increases raises valid questions about the motives driving such a significant financial burden on our residents.

We are not only concerned about the present but also worried about the future consequences. If these unprecedented increases are allowed to proceed unchecked, by 2026, our water bills could reach unprecedented heights, making it difficult for many of us to cover basic expenses.

In light of these serious concerns, we urgently call upon the Pleasanton City Council to take the following actions:

1) Postpone Rate Increases:

We urge the City Council to postpone any water rate increases until a clear breakdown of the yearly financial impacts is provided in an easily understandable format to all Pleasanton residents. This should include the 2023 rates and a straightforward depiction of increases from 2023 to 2026 for different user categories, presented in simple dollar-per-year increments.

2) Clarity on Purpose:

We demand a comprehensive explanation for the proposed rate increases. The current lack of transparency regarding the allocation of these funds is deeply concerning. While we understand the financial challenges posed by the well issue, the sudden jump from a $4 million revenue shortfall to collecting tens of millions from residents until the end of time, demands a clear and easily understandable breakdown. 

3) Delay Non-Mandatory Increases: 

We call for the delay or deferral of any non-mandatory rate increases. It's essential to prioritize the Pleasanton's residents interests over expansionist financial adventures and amassing of a war chest.

4) Utilize Existing Funds Better:

We implore the City Council to explore the wise allocation of funds to ensure that water remains affordable for all Pleasanton residents. We were able to manage wisely for 15-20 years. Increasing Pleasanton's variable water rates by 15-20X over 3 years, demands a strong examination. Striking a balance between financial sustainability and the community's well-being is crucial.

By signing this petition, we stand together to demand transparency, affordability, and the protection of the well-being of our community. The trust we place in the city's leadership depends on your response to our legitimate concerns.

Sincerely,

Pleasanton Water Residents

EMAIL The below AND let Pleasanton CITY COUNCIL KNOW of your OPPOSITION to the hike

citycouncil@cityofpleasantonca.gov,
City Manager: gbeaudin@cityofpleasantonca.gov
Water Dept Head: tbaptista@cityofpleasantonca.gov, pleasantoncityclerk@cityofpleasantonca.gov,

editor@pleasantonweekly.com,

dborenstein@bayareanewsgroup.com,

editor@independentnews.com