Global Water Resources is telling Maricopa customers its pending water and wastewater rate case has shifted significantly, with the utility now seeking an increase of roughly $7 per month, or about 7%, according to a letter sent to ratepayers Friday.

The communication marks the first direct customer update since the utility’s proposal sparked backlash and delays at the Arizona Corporation Commission.

In the letter, Global said its current rates are based on 2019 costs and cited rising expenses and capital investment across Pinal County as the reason it filed for a rate increase one year ago.

After nearly 10 months of review and multiple rounds of information exchanges with ACC auditors and the Residential Utility Consumer Office, the company said it revised its request downward — and dramatically so.

The updated figure is significantly lower than the original proposal seeking increases of 19.7% for water and 8% for wastewater, a plan that drew fierce public criticism during a December hearing.

Global told customers the new request reflects feedback gathered during the process and would remain below inflation since the last rate review, which it said was 26%.

Next steps

The case will move to a hearing before an administrative law judge involving Global Water, ACC staff and RUCO. After testimony concludes, the judge will issue a Recommended Opinion and Order for consideration by the commission at a future open meeting.

The utility told customers the current estimate for any new rates to take effect is early 2027.

Context

The rate case has been closely watched in Maricopa, where Global Water is the sole provider and residents previously raised concerns about affordability, high base charges and water quality during public comment sessions.

Proceedings were delayed in December after Global submitted more than 4,300 pages of additional documentation for regulators to review.

The Arizona Corporation Commission ultimately holds final authority over whether the requested rates are approved, modified or denied.