16 - Laserfiche WebLink

will include usage-based fees for both Zone 7 and the City, in addition to fixed meter fees for both agencies. Materials produced by the City note that when looking at individual components of the proposed rates, some line-item changes are significant,- however, ignificant; however, focusing on only specific/individual components of the proposed rate increase gives an incomplete view and understanding of the overall rate adjustment that was recommended in the water rate study. For example, the current Pleasanton distribution rate (listed as "Pleasanton Water Var Charge" on line 2 of current utility bills) does not sufficiently cover the cost of delivering water to the 22,000 customers and maintaining the distribution system. While this rate is increasing, it is due to shifting costs from fixed meter charges (listed as "Pleasanton Fixed Water" Charge on line 1 of current utility bills) which are decreasing. Additionally, there were comments noting the increase would be more than $33 for a billing cycle. Materials produced by the City note that the $33.17 increase for a bi- monthly bill is based on an average residential customer that uses 20 CcF; however, the increase amount will vary based on actual water usage. As shown in the charts above (Figure 4), the more water a single-family residential customer uses the higher the bill will be, based on the usage-based tiers for single-family residents. To assist the ratepayers in understanding the proposed changes, the City issued a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) that further addresses inquiries, which is provided as Attachment 5. NEXT STEPS Concurrent with this first phase of the rate study the City is working on several near- and long-term water program activities to address PFAS and ensure the state of good repair of the water distribution system in the long term: 1. Water Supply Alternatives Project: In September 2020, the City began development of the PFAS Treatment and Wells Rehabilitation Project to address PFAS contamination and extend the life of the existing groundwater supply. This project would rehabilitate/replace existing well facilities and construct a Centralized Treatment Facility for disinfection and PFAS treatment of groundwater before distribution. Given project costs and other considerations, in September 2022, the City Council authorized staff to perform a Water Supply Alternatives Study and put the PFAS Treatment and Wells Rehabilitation Project on hold. The selection of the preferred project will be discussed with the City Council on September 19, 2023 and presented formally to the Council on October 17, 2023. 2. Water System Management Plan: Staff recently completed a high-level assessment of the water program utilizing the EPA's Effective Utility Management Guidance document. Staff intends to update the water program to address the findings and is currently developing a Water System Management Plan (WSMP) to manage the water program moving forward. Page 18 of 19