06/17/2026
🚽💰 Sewer rates are going up in Chico.
After a lengthy debate Tuesday night, the Chico City Council voted 4-3 to approve a series of sewer rate increases aimed at funding long-overdue upgrades to the city’s sewer system and wastewater treatment facility.
The approved plan includes:
- 55% increase in 2027
- 55% increase in 2028
- 3% annual increases for the following 3 years
According to the City of Chico, the plan amounts to a cumulative increase of 162.5% over five years.
City officials say the hikes are needed to address decades of deferred maintenance and meet state environmental requirements. Some business owners and community members opposed the increases, citing concerns about affordability, but council members agreed the infrastructure upgrades could no longer be delayed.
What do you think about the council’s decision? ⬇️
