The push to repeal Fresno's recent water rate increase passed another hurdle. Monday, a judge gave the go ahead to petitioners to start collecting signatures which are needed to put the issue on a ballot.
The ongoing battle surrounding a repeal of Fresno's water rate hikes continues to heat up. Monday, a judge ruled the city attorney, despite his reluctance, must deliver a title and summary, explaining the proposed ballot measure to voters.
Doug Vagim says, "We were very pleased and we thank the court for it's decision is going with the people."
Former Fresno county supervisor Doug Vagim is leading the initiative, coined Measure W. He wants voters to decide whether they want to pay more for their water. The rate increases have been in effect for city and some county residents since September 17th.
Monday's ruling will allow Vagim to collect petition signatures; nearly 4,900 are needed to make it on the ballot.
Voter Diane Walker says, "I would definitely sign a petition for that because everything is just too much. Give people a chance to voice their opinions."
The hikes, which will eventually double water bills in the next four years, are set to replace old and worn out infrastructure and fund a new treatment plant.
Fresno utilities director Patrick Wiemiller says, "For the quality of the water supply, for the future of Fresno, we need these capital projects and the only way we can do that is to implement the rates."
City attorney Doug Sloan tells us he will appeal the decision. Meanwhile, Vagim is aiming to get the measure on the ballot for the June elections. He says the extra initiative will cost the city $26,000.
"We have the right as the people and the citizens of this community and the voters of this city to air our points of view on taxes and fees," says Vagim.
The judge ordered Sloan to deliver the title and summary by December 6th at four p.m.