The California Public Utilities Commission announced on Mar. 16 that it will hold a series of public forums for customers of Suburban Water Systems to comment on the company’s proposed rate increase. The forums are scheduled for April 13, 14, and 15, with one virtual session and two in-person meetings in Walnut and Buena Park.
The issue is significant because Suburban Water Systems is seeking an approximate 40 percent revenue increase from 2027 to 2029. If approved, the average residential customer using 12 CCF (about 8,976 gallons) per month would see their monthly bill rise by $32.26 over three years. The increases would be phased in as follows: a 19.41 percent hike in 2027, followed by increases of 8.91 percent in 2028 and 8.15 percent in 2029.
According to the company’s application to the CPUC, the additional revenue would cover rising costs and fund replacement of aging infrastructure. Suburban Water Systems serves about 300,000 customers throughout Southern California.
The CPUC said it welcomes attendance and comments at these public forums—formally called Public Participation Hearings—as public input helps inform its decision-making process. While a quorum of commissioners or their staff may attend the sessions, no official action will be taken during these events.
Customers can participate by attending in person or calling into the virtual forum to make comments. Written comments can also be submitted online through the proceeding’s Docket Card under the Public Comments tab. Specialized accommodations such as interpreters are available upon request if arranged at least five business days before the event.
The CPUC regulates services and utilities across California with a focus on consumer protection, environmental safeguards, and ensuring access to reliable utility infrastructure.
