To continue to ensure a safe, reliable, high-quality water supply, the Town of Queen Creek has proposed a 15% water rate increase, equating to approximately $3-$6 per month for most residential customers. If approved, the new rates will take effect on June 6, 2025, and will be reflected on water bills beginning with the July 29 billing cycle.
This is the first residential water rate adjustment in more than 15 years, driven by essential system infrastructure improvements, rising costs for renewable water supplies, and overall service enhancements. The increase is the first step in a multi-phase approach to align rates with the true cost of delivering safe, reliable, high-quality water to the community both now and into the future.
Investing in Water Infrastructure
Over the past 15 years, the Town has made significant investments in its water system while keeping rates among the lowest in the East Valley.
Key improvements include:
- Expanding Service Area: Increased coverage from 36 to 69 square miles, enhancing reliability.
- Water Production & Distribution Enhancements: Added 15 water production sites and implemented electronic meter reading for real-time efficiency.
- Water Reliability Investments: Developed a lake water reuse program, acquired Cibola Water, and secured additional renewable water sources.
- Regional Partnerships: Partnered with neighboring municipalities to recharge treated effluent and develop additional groundwater storage facilities.
- Customer Service & Operational Efficiencies: Launched a new online utility billing system, expanded conservation programs, and achieved consistently high customer satisfaction ratings.
- Financial Stewardship: Implemented strategic policies that have saved the Town $157.6 million over the past six years, including $66 million directly related to water and wastewater services.
New Water Bill Estimate Calculator
Customers can estimate their water bill increase using an online calculator at QueenCreekAZ.gov/WaterRateUpdate.
The calculator will also show if customers have a CAGRD (Central Arizona Groundwater Replenishment District) fee on their annual property tax bill. In 2018, the Queen Creek Town Council adopted a policy to help offset increasing CAGRD costs, saving customers money. In many cases, the CAGRD fee reduction on property taxes is similar to or greater than the 15% water rate increase, helping to minimize the financial impact.
Customers in the former Diversified Water Service Area (portions of East San Tan Valley) will not experience a rate increase, as their rates already align with the proposed updated water rates.
The increase will be considered at the May 7 Town Council meeting, which will include a public hearing.
For more information, visit QueenCreekAZ.gov/WaterRateUpdate.
