LA County Sanitation District proposes modest monthly sewer charge increase; public hearings scheduled

Andrew Hall, a representative of the LA County Sanitation District, presented proposed wastewater service-charge rate increases to the Pico Rivera City Council, saying the district needs additional revenue to cover rising operating and capital costs.

"When you flush the toilet, you don't worry about it again," Hall said, summarizing why the district operates a large, 24/7 sewer treatment system serving millions. He told the council that operating costs rose about 20% over the past five years while rates increased roughly 10%, and that electricity and chemical costs are a primary driver of the gap.

Hall outlined a five‑year rate adjustment that would increase charges in the Pico Rivera portion of the district by about $2.67 to $2.95 per month for a typical single‑family home, with an effective start date of July 1, 2026. He said the district intends to spread capital costs over longer debt terms, pursue grants and low‑interest loans, and reduce energy and chemical dependence where possible. He also highlighted a low‑water‑use rebate program and noted that approximately 2,000 system users statewide will see increases of similar scale.

A council member asked whether the district would publicize its information meetings. "We sent out a notice regarding proposed rate increases ... that should be getting to your residence," Hall replied, and he listed in-person public hearings for District 2 on May 13 and District 18 on May 27. He also said fact sheets and contact information are available and that written input sent to the district will be provided to the board.

Hall told the council the district is planning additional treatment cooperation with the Metropolitan Water District to increase drought resilience and said much of the system's infrastructure dates to about 50 years ago and will need replacement.

Next steps: the district will hold the public hearings it listed, receive written and emailed comments for the board record, and bring the matter forward to the board for decision. The council did not take formal action on the rates during the meeting.