Support Riverside's Agricultural Water Rate

Riverside sparked California's 2nd gold rush with the introduction of the Washington Naval Orange in 1873. Agriculture is part of Riverside's heritage.

Unfortunately,in 2018 the city utility proposed to eliminate agricultural water rates and increase costs to city farmers by 150%! The community rose up in protest and the city leaders formed a community task force to recommend a rate alternative. After 18 months of study and public review, the rate will go before the Riverside Board of Public Utilities and City Council on October 15th.

The proposed rate will save agricultural customer $3 million over the next 4 years compared to the original city proposal. It will be the lowest ag water rate in Southern California using potable infrastructure. The rate will be expanded to all communities within the service area. Neighbors can combine their properties to satisfy the 1/2 acre minimum area. The rate promotes efficient water use and is customized for each customer based upon the crop being grown. It is designed to promote both ag-innovation and healthy communities through improved food access. The rate is not subsidized and satisfies cost-of-service rate-making practices.

You can find more information about the proposed water rate here:
https://riversideca.legistar.com/MeetingDetail.aspx?ID=718386&GUID=EAE5C13D-CD7F-41F3-BF06-E99CC9EA1A11&Options=info&Search=

Please attend the hearing on October 15th, 2:00 PM at the County of Riverside Board Room 4080 Lemon Street, Riverside, CA

Please submit a letter of support to city_clerk@riversideca.gov

Here is a draft letter of support for you to consider:

To: city_clerk@riversideca.gov


Dear RPU Board Member and City Council Member:

I support the proposed WA-12 Agricultural Water Rate. This rate will save city farmers over $3 million in water costs over the next 4 years compared to the original utility proposal that will be forced on to farmers if this rate does not pass.

The water rate is consistent with the City's General Plan and voter approved referendums to promote agriculture. The rate is designed to promote efficient water use. Growing food locally improves food security and helps to build healthier communities.

For all of these reasons, I ask you to approve this water rate.

Sincerely,