Demand Public Involvement in Water Rate Study

water rates Photo: Steve Johnson, CC

New York City's Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a Water and Sewer Rate Restructuring Study. As is, the RFP proposes a three year timeframe for the study and does not include a plan for public input or engagement. Facing such a important issue that will affect all New Yorkers, it is critical that DEP convenes a Citizen Advisory Committee body before the study begins.

Tell NYC's mayor that a Citizens Advisory Committee is needed for DEP’s Water and Sewer Rate Restructuring Study.

Instructions:

Read the sample letter (below) and add your own thoughts on why this is important to you. Personalized messages have a greater impact!

Recipients

Honorable Alfonso Carney, New York City Water Board, DEP

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Message

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Dear [Decision Maker],

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The City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) must convene a Citizens Advisory Committee before conducting its Water and Sewer Rate Restructuring Study. DEP's Restructuring Study has the potential to recognize that stormwater management is a separate expense from water consumption. Incorporating stormwater fees presents an opportunity to fund and build infrastructure, fairly apportion costs, create jobs, and invest in improvements to communities. The study will help determine whether water rates--a fee that all New Yorker landowners pay, but few question--are equitably distributed and effectively implemented. It would be a grave oversight to leave the public out of this process.

Restructuring the city's stormwater rate requires meaningful collaboration among state and federal agencies, the city, community and environmental organizations, and local elected officials. Throughout the process, it is critical to ensure that the public fully understands the complex issue, which impacts every New Yorker's living costs. DEP must convene a Citizens Advisory Committee to make certain that stakeholders are involved at every step of the Water and Sewer Rate Restructuring Study.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]