Get in-person answers and provide your comments regarding new rates being considered by Las Cruces Utilities (LCU). The next chance to speak to members of the Utility Customer Advisory Group (UCAG) will be at the Mesilla Valley Mall (700 S. Telshor Blvd.) on Friday, October 26th from 12 noon to 4 p.m. and then again at Farmer’s Market on Saturday morning, October 27th from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Currently, the LCU wastewater rates are under review. An independent consultant (Stantec Consulting Services, Inc.) has reviewed LCU rates and found that current costs of providing sanitary sewer service are much higher than the revenues paid by customers through monthly billing. The UCAG reviews the consultant’s findings, explains them to customers, and takes in customer feedback about how rate increases are implemented. Our current wastewater rates were set nine years ago, and costs of providing utilities – like so many other things - have gone up.
There are three options on the table: a phased-in cost increase over two years, a phased-in cost increase over three years, or a full implementation of new rates in one year. The UCAG has already held multiple open houses, public meetings, and has even manned a booth at the Farmer’s Market. Unfortunately, attendance has been low, but customers will still have two more opportunities to chat with UCAG members.
“We had pretty good success at the Farmers Market,” said UCAG member, William Daley. “We want to hear from all citizens and to try and make it easier, next we are going to make an appearance at the mall and we’re going back to the Farmers Market.”
Once they hear from the public, the UCAG will send its recommendation to the LCU Board of the Commissioners who sends its recommendation to the City Council for a final decision. The likely result will be approximately a $5.51 monthly increase in the cost to provide wastewater service to the average customer.
All documents associated with the rate review process are located at www.las-cruces.org, and then simply search for “UCAG.” Customers may also email the UCAG Committee at ucag@las-cruces.org.
Submited by Las Cruces Utilities at 528-3500 from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Las Cruces Utilities provides GAS – WATER – WASTEWATER – SOLID WASTE services to approximately 100,000 Las Cruces residents and businesses.