This is a formal written protest under the Proposition 218 public hearing process for Agenda Items G4 and G5.
Dear Mayor Nash and City Council Members,
I am submitting this written comment in protest of Agenda Item G4 – Solid Waste Rate Increases and Agenda Item G5 – Water Rate Increases, both part of this public hearing and rate-setting process.
G4 proposes an increase in solid waste rates from $58.64 to $78.47 over five years (approximately 34%) for the collection, processing, and disposal of waste, recycling, and compost materials for residential and commercial customers.
G5 proposes an increase in water rates from $33.53 to $40.40 over three years (approximately 20%), including pass-through wholesale water cost increases from the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission and related capacity charges.
My primary concern is the timing and combined impact of these two rate increases.
These increases would take effect within the same general period. This will result in a compounded and unavoidable increase in essential utility costs for every household. This creates a double financial burden on many Belle Haven residents.
Inflation remains high and gas prices continue to strain household budgets. Many residents are already struggling with basic living expenses. Even when each increase is justified individually, implementing both simultaneously significantly reduces affordability for seniors, renters, and working families.
The concern is not only the level of each increase, but the cumulative impact of stacking them together within the same timeframe. Essential utilities are not optional, and combined increases place disproportionate pressure on household budgets.
I urge the City Council to revise the timing of these increases. Implementing both
simultaneously creates a compounded financial burden that many residents cannot reasonably absorb.
Thank you for your consideration.
Eduardo L. Hernandez
Belle Haven Resident for 26 years
