YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) – A second public meeting was held Wednesday where Yuma residents could voice their opinions on potential water and sewer utility rate increases.

“Another concern I have is that capacity fees will go up and users will no longer subsidize growth. “The capacity fee covers the cost of new construction,'' said local resident Greg Wilkinson.

The city was able to explain the background to the proposal.

“The fact that this wasn't just something we wanted to do, there was an independent rate study that was done for this, and that was a deciding factor,” said Dave Nash, public relations coordinator for the city of Yuma. ” he said.

The proposed increase would be approximately $2 to $3 per month during that period.

The last increase in water and wastewater facilities was in 2019.

The vice president of Wildan Financial explains why the increase is needed now.

“The combination of increased operating costs, inflation, increased insurance costs, and the need for capital improvements requires the City to implement a new comprehensive water and wastewater rate plan,” said City Vice President Dan V. Jackson said. Wildan Financial.

After hearing concerns from Wildan Financial and some members of the public, the City Council is expected to vote on a rate hike in the near future.