Los Angeles County Sanitation District No. 14, which oversees much of the sewer system in Lancaster, recently approved an ordinance designed to help lower service charges for local rate payers. The reduced rates will reportedly take place immediately and should be seen on upcoming property tax bills in October.
The current service charge per home is $496 each year; the new rate will be reduced and held at $476 per year until the end of fiscal year 2018-19. After that, the rates will be voted on again. The district was able to refinance a major portion of its debt and passed on the savings to rate payers in the form of reduced fees.
“Residents and business owners will receive some much needed relief by way of this ordinance,” said Ken Mann, a member of the Lancaster city council and chairperson of Sanitation District No. 14. “Actions such as this are what allow the city of Lancaster to remain one of the most business friendly cities.”
While a number of sanitation districts within Los Angeles County have been reportedly unable to avoid annual rate increases, the move in Lancaster may be a unique opportunity to help keep energy costs down. Lancaster Mayor R. Rex Parris believes the measure will help the city maintain low water rates, particularly during the drought.
“On behalf of the Lancaster City Council, we thank Councilman Mann for constantly working to ensure our community’s finances are protected and service rates are fair.”
Lancaster has a rebate program under which low water users may apply for a reduced charge. Residents may obtain more details about the water rebate program on the city’s website at www.lacsd.org/wastewater/lowwaterprogram.asp.
