Over a period of several years, brochures that accompanied monthly city water bills stated that current sources — Lake Cachuma, groundwater, state water, and Gibraltar Reservoir — would provide a reliable water supply during drought cycles. In light of this supposedly sufficient supply, I was dismayed to receive notice of yet another rate hike for water usage in the coming months. This move increases the economic burden on many of us who struggle financially to remain in Santa Barbara.

Equally disconcerting is the amount of construction in Santa Barbara, which will place additional water demands on what little we have left. I feel that those of us settled here should not share the entire financial burden of higher water rates. A larger portion of the rate hikes should be placed on those who will occupy newly constructed office buildings and dwellings.

Do not punish current residents with more rate increases!

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