Cerritos Residents Protest Proposed 76% Water Rate Hike

On Tuesday, the town of Cerritos erupted in protest as officials revealed plans to raise water and sewer rates by as much as 76%, a move that has left many residents and business owners scrambling to understand the financial impact.

The Proposed Hike

Mayor Frank Aurelio Yokoyama explained that the hike is necessary to repair the city’s 60‑year‑old water infrastructure, with the revenue earmarked for upgrades. \”Our residents and businesses should be paying the truer costs of the operation and maintenance of the new water infrastructure,\” he said during a press briefing. He also noted that the details of projected costs and the proposed rate schedule are posted on the city’s website.

Infrastructure and Funding

The city’s water system, built over six decades ago, has long been plagued by leaks and aging pipes. Officials say the proposed rate increase will fund critical repairs, including replacement of old mains and the installation of modern monitoring equipment. The upgrade is intended to ensure safe, clean, and reliable water for the community.

Rate History and Accountability

Cerritos confirmed to NBC Los Angeles that water and sewage rates had risen from 2014 to 2020, a fact that has fueled resident frustration. Many question why the infrastructure problems were not addressed during that six‑year period. \”It’s time for accounting,\” Gilhuys said. \”We’re not going to pay 100% more in one year. Let’s come back with a reasonable plan.\”

Community Concerns

Carla Gilhuys, a neighborhood activist, warned that seniors and the elderly will be forced to choose between higher bills and basic needs. \”For our seniors and our elderly to have to choose, when the water bill goes up, they don’t get a choice,\” she said. She urged the city council to sit down and manage the money more responsibly.

Mobilizing Opposition

Gilhuys leads a group that is canvassing door to door to gather opposition to the hikes. The team emphasizes that residents should have a say in how public funds are allocated. They argue that a sudden 76% increase is unacceptable without a phased, transparent plan.

Protest Forms and Legal Rights

According to Gilhuys, the group has already submitted about 1,000 written objections and plans to file roughly 6,800 more. Under California’s Proposition 218, a majority of written objections can compel the city to block the proposed rate increase.

Proposition 218 Rights

Proposition 218, also known as the Right to Vote on Taxes Act, gives property owners the right to protest proposed rate hikes. If a majority submits written objects, the city is legally required to halt the increase. Residents have used this mechanism to challenge the current proposal.

Public Hearing and Future Rates

A public hearing is scheduled for Jan. 26, giving neighbors a chance to speak before the council makes a final decision. The hearing will cover the rate adjustments that could run annually through 2030. Residents are encouraged to attend and present their concerns.

Future Rate Schedule Through 2030

The proposed rate adjustments are projected to be implemented annually, potentially affecting residents for the next decade. City officials claim the schedule will spread the cost burden over time, but many question whether the timeline is realistic.

Closing Summary

With a potential 76% hike looming, Cerritos residents face a dilemma between necessary infrastructure repairs and the financial strain on households. The upcoming hearing on Jan. 26 will be a pivotal moment for the community to influence the city’s water policy and ensure that future rates are both fair and transparent.