Which parts of our current rates were evaluated?

The following elements of the rate structure were evaluated as part of the Water and Wastewater Rate Study:

  • Water Rate Tiers. Rates were billed in four tiers prior to July 2021. With usage changes over the last eight years, this tier structure was evaluated to maximize affordability.
  • Water Shortage Rates. Six water shortage stages were used prior to July 2021, which come into play when there is a drought or other cause for a water shortage. Considerations included whether to modify the rate stages to reflect changes to base rate tiers and discussions related to uniform shortage rate surcharge at each stage.
  • Wastewater Rate Structure. Historically there have been many questions regarding the period for setting residential wastewater rates (determination period) and the cap for the rates. Considerations included changes to the cap as well as the determination period to ensure equity in rates.
  • VenturaWaterPure Financing. Raftelis Financial Consultants, Ventura Water’s rate planning consultant, evaluated financing scenarios for VenturaWaterPure as well as cost allocation amongst water and wastewater rates.
  • Long-Term Financial Plans. Considerations included annual increases to account for utilities’ gross rate revenue needs.

Show All Answers

1. Why do water and wastewater rates need to change?
2. Why would rates change if we currently have enough water?
3. Would rates change if we did not need additional water supplies?
4. Has conservation helped to address water supply needs?
5. How does new development affect rates?
6. How will the revenue from our rates be used to improve our water and wastewater systems?
7. When was the last rate change?
8. How do Ventura's rates compare to other cities and water districts?
9. What influence does the VenturaWaterPure Project have on potential changes to the water rate structure and proposed rates?
10. Why can't water conservation be used in lieu of VenturWater Pure?
11. Which parts of our current rates were evaluated?
12. What is the process for determining rate changes?
13. What is the schedule for rate changes?
14. How often are rates evaluated and updated?
15. Who approves rate changes?
16. How do I know that the proposed rates are equitable?
17. How will the proposed rates impact my household bill?
18. What other changes can I expect?