Costa Mesa to see a 50% hike in sewer fees

Customers of the Costa Mesa Sanitary District will see a 50% hike in their sewer fees, but their trash rates will stay the same, the district board voted Monday.

The board sought an increase in fees to cover maintenance and cleaning for the sewer system as well as higher energy costs and compliance with mandates to avoid sewage spills. “The system is over 50 years old, and it needs more attention and work,� Costa Mesa Sanitary District Manager Rob Hamers said.

The new rates, which are retroactive to July 1, will go from $37.64 to $56.47 per year for a single-family homeowner. Customers will see the higher fees on their tax bills this fall.

Hamers said the board approved the new fees unanimously in a 4-0 vote.

— Alicia Robinson