Union Joins County Lawsuit Against Bakersfield Sewer Hikes | Bakersfield News

Kern County is suing Bakersfield over steep sewer rate hikes, and now SEIU Local 521—representing 3,000+ workers—is stepping in to join the fight. The city’s plan raises rates from $247 to $875 over five years, sparking outrage. The union filed a government claim seeking to block the hikes, hoping for a negotiated fix—but ready to litigate if needed. A judge will decide if SEIU can officially join the case by September 1st. While the county insists the rates are unlawful and too costly, Bakersfield remains silent. This could reshape how residents pay for essential services—and who gets to decide. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/7efde48bd5e00bf9