Public Hearing Today on Sewer Rates

The City Council will hear from residents opposed to an increase in sewer rates at a public hearing this afternoon.

The council proposed the 28% increase in June.

The increase is sought to speed repairs to the city’s aging sewer system, provide backup generators for sewer pumps on the beach and divert drainage in the summer from ocean outlets to the sewer treatment system, to reduce coastal pollution.

For single-family homes and condominiums, the annual fee would rise from $294 to $378. The average increase for commercial users--who are charged by the amount of water they use--would be $157 a year, almost twice the residential increase.

The council also will discuss the availability of grants from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, which could be used to buy properties in the city damaged or destroyed in the February mud- and landslides. The city would have to match 25% of the federal contribution, however, a cost to Laguna Beach of about $1 million.

The meeting will begin at 5 p.m. at the City Hall council chambers, 505 Forest Ave.

Information: (949) 497-0705.