Ventura County Waterworks District No. 16 has issued a Proposition 218 notice announcing a public hearing on proposed sewer rate adjustments for the Piru community. The hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. in the Board of Supervisors Hearing Room at the Ventura County Government Center.
Proposition 218 requires local agencies to notify property owners of proposed rate changes and gives them the right to submit written protests before any adjustments are approved.
This article includes the details of the notice along with background information on public hearings and how utility rates are set in California.
Why the Notice Was Sent
Waterworks District No. 16 provides sewer collection, treatment, and disposal services for Piru. The current wastewater treatment plant—originally built in 1974 and replaced in 2010—treats up to 500,000 gallons per day and serves approximately 690 sewer connections. The system also includes 9 miles of sewer lines and two lift stations, both dating back to 1974.
The District completed a comprehensive rate study to determine equitable cost allocation for customers.
Reasons for the Proposed Rate Adjustment
The proposed adjustments, effective July 1, 2026, are driven by several factors:
Rising costs for fuel, labor, materials, and electrical power
The need to replace aging infrastructure and improve system reliability
Building financial reserves for repairs, natural disaster response, and future upgrades
Increased costs tied to regulatory compliance and laboratory requirements
Repayment of a five‑year, $1.4 million loan for high‑priority capital projects
Continued repayment of a $2 million General Fund loan related to the 2009 plant construction
How Sewer Charges Are Collected
To reduce administrative costs, sewer charges are collected through the annual County tax roll.
A parcel‑specific report is available listing all properties that benefit from District services.
How Public Hearings Work in Ventura County
A public hearing is a scheduled meeting where a government body receives public input before making a decision. For Proposition 218 hearings:
A notice is mailed at least 45 days in advance
The agency presents the proposed rate changes
Residents may speak or submit written protests
If a majority protest occurs, the rate cannot be approved
Public hearings are required for transparency and public participation.
How Utility Rates Are Set in California
Utility rates — including water and sewer — are based on the actual cost of providing service. Agencies consider:
Operating costs
Infrastructure maintenance and replacement
Regulatory requirements
Labor, energy, and material costs
Long‑term capital planning
Emergency and reserve funding
A rate study is typically conducted to ensure fairness and compliance with state law.
Under Proposition 218, rates cannot exceed the cost of providing the service.
Public Participation
Piru property owners may attend the June 23 hearing to provide comments or submit written protests in accordance with Proposition 218 requirements.