Water affordability is becoming one of the most critical challenges facing California. As the cost of delivering safe and reliable water continues to rise, communities, policymakers, and industry leaders must come together to address these challenges and find sustainable solutions.
That is why California Water Association is hosting its 2025 Spring Policy Symposium, themed “The Price of a Drop”, at the Kimpton Sawyer Hotel in Sacramento from May 21-23, 2025. This event will bring together key voices in the water industry to examine the economic realities of water affordability, the impact of rising costs, and strategies to ensure access to essential water services for all Californians.
What to Expect at the Symposium
Over the course of three days, attendees will hear from leading experts, utility leaders, and policymakers about the biggest financial and regulatory challenges impacting water affordability. The agenda includes discussions on how water utilities are responding to rising costs, innovative policy solutions, and how communities can work together to maintain sustainable water access.
Key sessions include:
- The State of Water Affordability in California with featured speaker Manny Teodoro
- Defining Water Affordability and what it means for customers and utilities
- Unpacking the Rising Cost of Water and what is driving rate increases
- Mitigating Water Bill Increases through policy and operational solutions
- Turning Solutions into Action for Water Affordability
In addition to thought-provoking discussions, the symposium will include regulatory seminars tailored for both small and large water utilities, providing valuable insights into evolving state policies and compliance requirements.
Why This Matters
Water affordability is not just a utility issue—it’s a public policy and social equity concern. As California continues to face challenges from climate change, droughts, and infrastructure costs, water providers are being forced to navigate complex economic and regulatory landscapes that impact customer rates.
At this symposium, experts will break down the factors driving water rate increases and discuss proactive strategies to balance affordability with the need for investment in reliable infrastructure.
This event is an opportunity for industry leaders, government officials, and community advocates to come together and collaborate on practical solutions that can help shape California’s water future.
