Costa Mesa could face 50% increase in sewer fees

Customers of the Costa Mesa Sanitary District may see a 50% increase in their sewer fees for the current fiscal year, if the district's board approves the proposed rate hike in August.

The increase would affect residential and commercial customers in all of Costa Mesa, some unincorporated areas the city serves, and small portions of Newport Beach.

Under the new sewer rate schedule, single-family homeowners would pay $56.47 annually, up from the $37.64 per year they now pay. The increase would be retroactive to July 1.

Sanitary district officials say the fee hike is needed to pay for stepped-up maintenance and equipment for sewer lines, higher energy costs at pumping stations, and compliance with new state mandates to avoid sewage spills. The board will vote on the proposed rate increase after a public hearing scheduled at 6 p.m. Aug. 6 at the Costa Mesa Neighborhood Community Center, 1845 Park Ave.

— Alicia Robinson