The rates paused in 2020 due to the pandemic but are back and increasing this coming Fall.
You probably received a notice about the Sewer Service Charge (SSC) increasing its rates this coming Fall. The increase to the SSC rate was paused in 2020 during the pandemic and is currently undergoing public input.
Tonya Shelton, a public information director for the city of Los Angeles, spoke to the Sentinel about what the SSC is, why it’s important and more.
“The Sewer Service Charge is a rate included on the LADWP utility bill,” said Shelton. “The funds support maintenance and repair of the city’s aging sewer system and allows for construction of new infrastructure, the development and implementation of new technology in order to meet the service needs of all Angelenos.”
The pandemic slowed and stopped many things in 2020 including an increase on the SSC charge. Shelton shared that the current state of affairs required rates to return and increase in order keep an important function of the city safe.
“Rates have remained the same, with no adjustment or increase, for several years,” said Shelton. “The steady rate increases were paused in 2020 because of the pandemic.”
Shelton continued, “During that time, inflation has nearly doubled the costs of supplies and chemicals have risen while revenues remained flat.
“This proposed increase will ensure that the city can cover growing costs, safeguarding the reliability and resilience of our wastewater system.”
For those concerned about cost and maybe be struggling financially, Shelton shared there is assistance available for households in need. More information can be found by visiting www.ladwp.com/financialassistance to learn more about the EZ-SAVE and Level Pay programs.
“The decision to reinstate the annual rate increase was not made in haste or without consideration of our ratepayers,” said Shelton.
“We operate the largest, separate wastewater collection system in the county—with 6,700 miles of sewers, 42 wastewater pumping stations and four water reclamation systems.
“We appreciate your support and environmental stewardship.”
It’s an increase that might not be well-received right now but is needed according to Shelton. The SSC protects our environment which is a fragile commodity nowadays. It’s important that we safeguard our waterways, beaches and the ocean.
“We must ensure that this infrastructure represents resiliency, reliability, and innovation now and for generations to come,” said Shelton.
If the public is interested, there is an upcoming webinar where everyone can learn more about what is happening with the SSC charges.
“We encourage those who would like to learn more about the proposed rate adjustment to attend our online webinar on Tuesday, August 6 at 6:00 p.m.,” said Shelton.
The public is advised to register ahead of time by using the link: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_cGR2yQ48Rt2yh7xyy4HPPQ
For more information, visit www.lacitysan.org/rates for more information.
