Facing public backlash and a reluctance to raise yet another bill on city residents, the San Diego City Council voted 8-1 to delay a decision on a proposal to increase water and wastewater rates dramatically in the next four years.

But it’s not delayed for long. The item will return at 2 p.m. Oct. 28. The proposal before the council was to increase water rates by 63% through 2029 and wastewater rates by 31% in the same period.

Dozens of city residents balked at the rate hike, as did council members.

“I’ve been talking to my constituents and they are not having this,” said Councilman Stephen Whitburn. “This is a nonstarter. I want to send this back to staff and I want to see the lowest possible number.”

If the plan had been approved Tuesday, water rates would have increased by 63% throu

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