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Gilbert Council Approves 25% Water Rate Hike in 4–3 Vote, Effective April 1

Officials say the increase funds aging infrastructure to reduce reliance on Colorado River supplies.

Overview

  • Town leaders adopted the final year of a three-year plan, following a 48% hike in 2024 and a 25% increase in 2025.
  • The council selected a path that adds 5% increases in 2028 and 2029, rejecting an alternative with two smaller hikes spread across this year and 2027.
  • Staff estimate average residential bills will rise by roughly $15–$20 per month, with larger changes for high-usage customers.
  • Sewer and recycling charges also rise, with a 2% increase for most residential users and a 20% increase for commercial accounts.
  • Residents and small farmers objected to higher costs and some requested an Arizona Attorney General review, while a proposed landscape-rate option for eligible agricultural users is slated for a March decision.