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Note: Missing finding numbers detected:
F3, F4, F5
Findings and Recommendations
2 findings
The Avila Beach CSD has a uniform water rate that does not increase unit cost as consumption increases.
Related Recommendations (1)
Avila Beach CSD should consider adopting tiered water rates that target high volume users Response Tiered water rates addressing high volume users will be studied in the near future as our District is currently in the process of initiating a connection fee and service rate analysis. However, it should be noted that 81% of the District's customers are already at minimum useage or less. Additionally, this District's residential per capita consumption is one of the lowest in the County (approximately 55 gal/day per person), reflecting the general awareness of the need to conserve water. One reason this is also possible is the fact that a number of residences and commercial properties utilize a substantial portion of the lot area. Thus outdoor landscaping is minimal. Also, being a small district with only approximately 335 connections, the unit cost of water and corresponding water rates are already substantial, thereby creating an economic disincentive to excessive water use. In any event, a contract for our rate study was approved by our Board on August 9, 2011 and will investigate tiered water rates as part of that study. Our Board of Directors will consider those rates at a later time this fiscal year. ٠,
The Avila Beach CSD bases its residential sewer base charges on volume of water consumed and does not clearly indicate on the bills that water volume affects sewer charges.
Related Recommendations (1)
The District should consider revising sewer bills to show that water usage affects sewer charges. Response The Avila Beach CSD has a very small customer base and has utilized a specially developed billing program meeting the needs of our District. This program currently does not allow for a seamless inclusion of separate information indicating impacts to sewer fees as related to water use. However, the District will look into the costs of other programs that may allow for additional informational items to be included on the billing. While this research is being completed, the District will initiate a quarterly "fact sheet" to be included with the water and sewer bill advising that sewer rates are based on water consumption. Additionally, the District is currently in the process of establishing a web site that will have the water and sewer rates shown. This web-site will allow for the District to keep our customers informed of many items that may be of interest. including water and sewer rates and the current rate structure. If you should need any further information, please contact me at your earliest convenience. Sincerely, Peter Kelley President Cc:
