SANFORD, Fla. – Residents of Sanford are facing the possibility of seeing their utility bills rise substantially in the near future. City officials are considering a proposal that would result in double-digit percentage increases for water and sewer rates over the coming five years.

During a workshop scheduled for Monday afternoon, city commissioners will examine plans to boost water rates by 33% and sewer rates by 29% by the year 2030. The initial increase could take effect later this year.

According to city staff, these proposed hikes are necessary to keep up with inflation and to finance nearly $297 million worth of infrastructure projects. These projects include enhancements to water treatment facilities, the installation of new meters, and expansions of wastewater plants.

However, this potential rise in costs has left many residents concerned, with some vocalizing their opposition to the proposal.

“The idea of an increase? It’s absurd,” one resident expressed to News 6, while another described the proposal as “ridiculous.”

Jose Cisneros, a local homeowner, shared his concern, stating that his family is already finding it difficult to manage their monthly expenses.

“Really, we’re struggling as it is, and any increase is just not going to help us at all,” Cisneros said.

One Sanford couple said their current water and sewage bill already totals about $110 a month for three people. Another homeowner told News 6 her monthly costs are roughly $145 for two people without lawn irrigation.

The workshop comes just weeks after city commissioners unanimously rejected a proposed fire fee that would have added about $85 a year to household bills. That plan was scrapped following heavy community pushback.

City leaders say Monday’s meeting, set for 4:45 p.m. at City Hall, is intended to review rate projections before moving forward with a public hearing process.

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