Taxation Without (WATER) Representation

The statements in this article are the author's views and not necessarily of the entire city council.

 Friends and Neighbors,

Many of you have recently expressed deep concern over the significant water rate hikes impacting families across our city, and I want you to know that your concerns are heard and shared. Like many of you, I was shocked when I opened my most recent water bill. This issue is something felt by all of us. Know that this issue is a top priority for me and for your city government.

The frustrating reality of this situation is that the Cottonwood Heights City Council has no say over these rate increases. Our water rates are unilaterally controlled by Salt Lake City Public Utilities and set by the Salt Lake City Council. This leaves us in a difficult position: we are subject to decisions in which we have no voice and no vote.

An Unfair System
This lack of representation is made worse by an inequitable rate structure. The Salt Lake City Council has set lower rates for its own residents while imposing higher rates on all of us in Cottonwood Heights. We are told these rate hikes are necessary to fund "aging infrastructure," which is a valid concern. However, it raises the question: what percentage of our hard-earned dollars are being used to repair infrastructure for Salt Lake City residents instead of the pipes and systems right here in our own neighborhoods?

My Position is Clear
Cottonwood Heights deserves a fair deal. I believe in three fundamental principles:

Representation: Cottonwood Heights either deserves a voice and a vote when it comes to setting water rates for our own residents, or we deserve a public presentation and hearing at our city hall, where our own residents can share their voice before any action is taken.

Local Investment: The infrastructure fees we pay should be invested in the water infrastructure that directly serves our city.

Fair Pricing: Our residents should not be charged more than any other ratepayer served by Salt Lake City Public Utilities.

 The Path Forward

 Mayor Mike Weichers and I have been focused on this issue for the past four months, working hand-in-hand to find a viable solution. Our first and preferred path is to work collaboratively with Salt Lake City and/or other neighboring municipalities. We believe that through true partnership, we can find a way to deliver clean, reliable, and affordable water to all our residents.

 However, if we cannot achieve a fair and equitable agreement, we must be prepared to explore alternative paths to keep costs reasonable for everyone in our community. While this would not be an easy road, we cannot stand by while our residents are treated unfairly.

 I am committed to fighting for you and will continue to work tirelessly to ensure a better and more affordable future for Cottonwood Heights. ■