IEUA Rate Study to raise sewer rates

IEUA Proposes Rate Increases: What It Means for Upland Residents

The Inland Empire Utilities Agency (IEUA) has proposed significant rate increases for both wastewater and water services, which would directly impact residents and businesses in Upland.

What’s Changing?

• Wastewater Rates: Upland is part of the regional sewage system. The IEUA is proposing 9% annual increases for two consecutive years (FY 2025-26 and 2026-27). This follows a 13% increase over the past two years.

• Water Rates: As a retail customer of IEUA’s imported water, Upland faces 2.6% annual increases to the Meter Equivalent Unit (MEU) rate over the same period.

• Recycled Water: Direct use and groundwater recharge rates are also proposed to increase between 4% and 9% per year.

These costs will likely be passed down to local ratepayers through their utility bills.

What’s Driving the Increases?

According to the IEUA’s cost of service study:

• Rising operational and maintenance costs (staffing, utilities, chemicals)

• The expansion of Regional Plant No. 5 (RP-5), a major treatment facility

• Debt service and funding for long-term capital improvements

• Maintaining strong credit ratings and financial reserves

Concerns from Regional Partners

Cities including Ontario, Chino, Montclair, and the Monte Vista Water District have raised strong concerns about the impact on ratepayers. These agencies have formally requested:

• A minimum 30-day review period before any rate adoption vote

• Greater transparency in the process

• Reconsideration of financial impacts from the Chino Basin Program (CBP)

Although Upland was not a signatory to the joint letter, our representative on the IEUA Policy Committee joined others in unanimously opposing the rate increases at the April 3 meeting, citing insufficient review time and lack of clarity around the proposal.

The Chino Basin Program (CBP) Debate

IEUA claims the CBP is a critical investment in local water security, producing 15,000 acre-feet of purified recycled water annually. However, some agencies argue the program’s costs are escalating, and it may benefit state interests more than local communities. There's concern that property tax dollars meant for local infrastructure may be redirected to fund CBP.

Bottom Line for Upland

• Your sewer and water rates may rise starting July 1, 2025, if these increases are adopted.

• Upland’s representative has voiced concern over the rate hikes and supported further review.

• These decisions are being made now, and it’s crucial that residents stay informed and engaged.

📢 Stay tuned to The Upland Update for further developments on this issue.

View the IEUA RATE STUDY HERE