In a recent Town Council Regular Session held on October 1, 2025, in Queen Creek, Arizona, officials initiated a significant process to update wastewater capacity fees, a move aimed at addressing the growing demands on the town's wastewater infrastructure due to ongoing development. The meeting featured presentations from Utilities Director Mark Skocific and a consulting team, who outlined the necessity for the fee increase and the implications for future development.

The proposed update is a response to the town's rapid growth, which has led to increased pressure on the existing wastewater treatment facilities. The current capacity is nearing its limits, necessitating an expansion of the treatment plant to accommodate an anticipated increase of approximately 14,600 equivalent residential units (ERUs) over the next decade. This expansion is projected to require an additional 2 million gallons of treatment capacity, with the fee increase expected to cover the associated infrastructure costs.

The council emphasized that the proposed capacity fee would more than double from its previous rate, which was last adjusted in 2019. This increase is designed to ensure that new developments—ranging from single-family homes to commercial enterprises—contribute fairly to the costs of expanding the wastewater system. Notably, the fees will only apply to new residents and businesses, not current ones.

A key aspect of the discussion involved the methodology for calculating these fees. The council highlighted the importance of ensuring that all land uses pay their fair share, with a particular focus on adjusting fees for multifamily housing. The proposed changes would align the fees more closely with actual wastewater generation, reflecting the density of residents in multifamily units compared to single-family homes.

The meeting also addressed the financial implications of the fee increase, including the potential for delaying the issuance of debt for infrastructure projects by utilizing existing capacity from a co-owned treatment plant. This strategic approach aims to manage costs effectively while planning for future expansions.

In conclusion, the council's discussions underscored the critical need for updated wastewater capacity fees to support Queen Creek's growth and ensure the sustainability of its wastewater infrastructure. As the town moves forward, the council will continue to engage with stakeholders and refine the fee structure to balance the needs of new developments with the existing community. The anticipated next steps include further public engagement and finalizing the fee adjustments in alignment with state statutes.