Gilbert plans another spike in water rates, despite the uproar over 2025 bills
Updated Dec. 17, 2025, 9:25 a.m. MT
The Gilbert Town Council is weighing a substantial raise to the town’s water utility charges—potentially as high as 25%—marking the third hike in as many years. Residents remain frustrated by the steep increases already implemented this year and by an ongoing audit of water-billing practices.
This move is framed as the next step in a bold three-tiered rate increase strategy the town argues is necessary to address aging infrastructure and rising costs. In 2024, residential water bills jumped by 50%, followed by another 25% increase in 2025.
But here's where it gets controversial: while the council says the increases are essential to modernize and sustain service, many residents question the fairness and transparency of the pricing and the audit’s findings. As discussions continue, the question looms for voters and ratepayers alike: are these hikes truly justified, or is there a better path to funding critical water-system improvements?
What do you think? Should Gilbert press ahead with higher rates to fix infrastructure, or demand more aggressive efficiency measures and accountability first? Share your take in the comments to drive the conversation forward.
