Water rates

Said the community has begged for numbers for years — including motorcycle rally finances — and criticized emotion-based decisions and impending water rate increases.

West-side senior worried about rate inequities across districts and the hardship increases place on fixed-income residents.

Asked whether the city has a contingency plan if the rate increase fails and offered SEIU's help with community outreach.

Senior who conserves water said her bill still exceeds $200 a month and pleaded for senior assistance programs.

Questioned the $21 million deficit narrative, cited $4.5 million behind in water collections, challenged unequal district water rates, and urged fair rates to protect jobs.

Welcomed the smaller 30% increase but raised hexavalent chromium in drinking water and the sewer plant smell, opposed penalizing water conservers, and supported discounts for seniors and low-income residents.

Not protesting the increase but asked for help and education for low-income residents on Social Security facing higher water bills.

Opposed the increase, saying fixed-income residents can't afford another hit and asking where the money really goes.

A longtime resident said he's paid roughly $20,000 toward the wastewater bond over two decades and never saw the promised rate relief; asked the council to reconsider.