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boogah/bakersfield_2025_sewer_rate_increase.md

Created April 16, 2025 21:10
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  1. boogah created this gist Apr 16, 2025.
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    ## Instructions for Submitting a Formal Protest:

    To formally protest the proposed sewer rate increase, submit your written protest to the City Clerk at the address contained in the letter below by May 28, 2025. Each written protest must include the following:

    - Your home's parcel number.
    - You can find this using [the Kern County Assessor’s online tool](https://www.kerncounty.com/government/departments/assessor-recorder/property/assessor-property-search).
    - The address of the parcel for which you are protesting.
    - Your full name and original signature.
    - Typed signatures _will not_ be accepted.

    Ensure your letter _clearly_ indicates your opposition to the proposed rate increase to ensure your voice is officially recorded and considered.

    ```
    [Your Full Name]
    [Your Street Address]
    Bakersfield, CA [ZIP Code]
    [Email Address]
    [Phone Number]
    [Parcel Number]
    [Today’s Date]
    City Clerk
    City of Bakersfield
    1600 Truxtun Avenue
    Bakersfield, CA 93301
    Subject: Protest Against Proposed Sewer Rate Increase
    Dear City Council Members,
    As a resident of Bakersfield, I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the proposed sewer rate increase from $239 per year to $950 per year—a nearly 300% increase. This significant rate hike would impose a serious financial strain on my household and many others in our community, including seniors, working families, and individuals on fixed incomes who already face numerous financial challenges.
    While I understand the importance of maintaining our city's essential infrastructure, the scale and suddenness of this proposed increase appear excessive and unreasonable. I strongly urge the city council to explore alternative funding options, such as reallocating existing budget resources or seeking state and federal infrastructure grants, to avoid shifting the entire cost onto residents.
    Additionally, I request that the city schedule additional public hearings or informational sessions to ensure that residents are adequately informed and given ample opportunity to provide feedback before any final decisions are made.
    Please officially record this as my formal protest against the proposed sewer rate increase.
    Thank you for considering the input and financial realities of Bakersfield residents.
    Sincerely,
    [Your Full Name]
    ```