City to hold hearing on proposed utility rate bump
$3.90 increase for irrigation water needed to help fund reservoir
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The city of Cape Coral plans to bump its irrigation water fee to help pay for a reservoir officials hope will maintain canal levels during the dry season.
Cape Coral City Council will hold a public hearing on May 21 to discuss the proposed rate increase of $3.90 for irrigation services for single-family residential homes and duplexes.
If the rate adjustment is approved, the flat-rate monthly cost for irrigation services at single-family residential homes and duplexes will increase from $9.50 to $13.40 effective Oct. 1.
A postcard was sent to residents regarding the proposed change.
"The City of Cape Coral plans to amend utility rates for all utility customers. City Council will hold a public hearing on May 21, 2025, to discuss the proposed rate changes and approve the rate resolution. Rate changes would be effective Oct. 1, 2025," it reads.
The meeting will take place at 5 p.m. in Council Chambers. The public is "invited to attend and participate in the public hearing or to file written comments with the City Clerk's Office prior to or during the hearing. If you decide to appeal any decision made by the City Council with respect to any matter considered at the hearing, you will need a record of the proceedings and may need to ensure that a verbatim record is made, including the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be made."
Council approved the purchase of 1,202 acres in Charlotte County in October 2024, a critical investment in the city's future, city spokesperson Lauren Kurkimilis said.
"By refilling our freshwater canals, this reservoir will help support the city's irrigation system, especially during the dry season when water levels drop. This project helps protect our environment and preserve our water resources. It's a critical step in making Cape Coral more resilient, sustainable, and ready for continued growth," she said.
Due to this acquisition, a rate adjustment is required to support the purchase, she said.
"In January, during the winter budget workshop, city staff provided an update on the Utilities Master Plan, which included the reservoir acquisition, proposed rate adjustment options, and staff's recommendation," she said. "The City Council discussed the issue and, by consensus, directed staff to move forward with the irrigation adjustment. On April 16, City Council approved Resolution 119-25, recapping the direction provided by City Council during the winter budget workshop."
The proposed rate change will be discussed at the May 21 meeting and a final rate resolution will be considered.
This public can in person at City Council chambers, 1015 Cultural Park Blvd., or watch online.
"Despite these increases, Cape Coral continues to remain the lowest utility provider in Southwest Florida,"Kurkimilis said.