Gilbert residents continue to face soaring water bills, a scenario that has sparked both public outcry and council promise for transparency. With bills more than doubling for some, concerns over a newly implemented billing system, questionable meter accuracy, and steep rate hikes have created a perfect storm of frustration and financial strain for the community.
The turmoil began with a billing system roll-out that quickly demonstrated issues, as well as the installation of new water meters that some suspect weren't properly calibrated. To add to the turmoil, residents have been hit with a significant increase in water rates—50% last year, an additional 25% this year, and a projected extra 25% hike in 2026. These measures are aimed at funding critical infrastructure projects, including the construction of a new water treatment facility, which has been delayed for years and is now costing half a billion dollars more than anticipated, according to AZFamily.
In response to the backlash, Town Councilor Kenny Buckland assured residents that the calibration errors would be corrected and that they would not be charged for such errors. "Absolutely they’re not getting charged for that. We’re going to make it right," Buckland said in a statement obtained by Fox 10 Phoenix. However, Councilman Jim Torgeson noted that any redirection of the town’s enterprise funds to counter the rate hikes could have detrimental effects. "It would damage it. Our bond credit rating would go through the roof. It would do more damage than good, which is unfortunate," Torgeson told AZFamily.
Despite these ongoing challenges, the Gilbert water conservation team has been proactive, conducting water efficiency checks at residents’ homes to identify inefficiencies and usage in irrigation systems. Doreen Frola, a Gilbert resident, had such a check after finding her bill had doubled in her absence. "I think it was $300-something to $709, and it was like ‘woah!’" Frola recounted to Fox 10 Phoenix.
Amidst the scrutiny, a former Gilbert mayor, Bridgette Peterson, expressed regret over her past vote to approve the expensive water project. "If I knew what I know now, it would have been a different story," Peterson said in an interview with AZFamily. In a bid to ensure accountability and explore potential remedies, Torgeson promised to re-examine the situation, although it’s clear the issue has plunged the council into a problematic quagmire. "This is going to be my hardest thing I have to deal with for my entire term," expressed Torgeson, signaling the council’s intent to meet and discuss feasible options, including the controversial exploration of tapping into the enterprise fund.
