Some Yuma residents concerned over high water bills
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) – Dozens of Yuma County residents are speaking out after they say a new water company took over drastically raising their water bills.
Tierra Mesa Estates is one of the many systems across Arizona that have seen a bigger water bill due to water/utility company Cactus State.
Cactus State has multiple operations across Arizona, including Yuma, that it took over in late 2021.
Last November, Cactus State got approval from the Arizona Corporation Commission (A.C.C) to increase their rate by at least 300%.
Tierra Mesa Estates resident Deb Parker says some people are struggling to make ends meet.
“I don’t think I ever got the memo that the water price was going up. So when I got home, I didn’t get home until January 9, I opened the water bill so I could get it paid and it was almost $400 and I was used to bills of $40-$50,” Parker said. “I know I’ve been on a fixed income and a few people that are on fixed income. It’s kind of hard for them. I know it’s hard for me. I’m trying to watch my water usage, but it doesn’t make much difference, but it’s more just watching my spending.”
In addition, there is also high amounts of uranium that is above the federal limit. When asked about it, Cactus State said cost plays a factor.
“Uranium treatment is very expensive, and we’ve been reviewing options since we acquired these systems in late 2021. We reviewed the best treatment system, but we’ve also had an eye on the cost,” Fred Kriess, Cactus State Regional Director, said.
As for the higher water bills, Kriess said it’s been a long time since the rate was increased.
“Where most of our complaints are coming from his Tierra Mesa Estates and their last last adjustment was in 2000,” Kriess said.
Local and state leaders have spoken on the huge increase. Yuma mayor Doug Nicholls wrote a letter to the A.C.C saying the increase is excessive.
“You see a 300% increase of anything, I think it warrants taking time and making sure that a full review and even maybe a second review is needed,” Nicholls said.
For Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes, she was not aware of it but says she would be willing to look into it.
“We have intervened in a couple of different rate cases. Even in one situation after the fact, we found some problems with the process of the corporation commission,” Mayes said.
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