Sweetwater Authority passes budget, reduces water increase

The Sweetwater Authority Governing Board approved a $72.35 million budget for fiscal year 2025-26, focusing on long-term financial sustainability and infrastructure investment.

The budget, adopted June 11, includes $13.4 million in capital spending for projects such as the Sweetwater Reservoir Aeration System. It also establishes a PFAS Mitigation Reserve, funded by proceeds from legal settlements.

A proposed water rate increase was reduced from 6.5% to 3.25%, due to higher-than-expected revenues and operational cost savings in the previous year.

The board also reauthorized the Water Affordability Program, which is fully funded through non-rate revenue. Customers facing hardship may apply online or in person at the agency’s administration building.

“This budget reflects our commitment to provide reliable water that meets state and federal standards at affordable rates,” said Chair Manny Delgado. “By making strategic decisions in the prior year, we project a stable financial outlook despite inflationary pressures, increasing operational costs, and rising wholesale water rates.”

A full copy of the budget can be found at www.sweetwater.org.