GILBERT, AZ (AZFamily) — After hundreds of Gilbert residents flooded Arizona’s Family inbox , saying their water bills are suddenly hundreds, even thousands, of dollars more expensive, a couple of town officials are giving their explanation of what happened.
We talked to Gilbert Public Works Director Jessica Marlow and Water Resources and Conservation Coordinator Jeremiah Churchill on Wednesday.
They said part of the sticker shock may be from a three-phase water rate increase approved by the Gilbert Town Council.
Phase 1: In 2024, residents saw a 50% increase.
Phase 2: In April 2025, an additional 25% increase took effect. That means a $100 bill before the two phases is now $175.
Phase 3: Another 25% increase is scheduled for next year, doubling bills over the three-year pl