The City of Westminster is inviting residents and businesses to participate in the Water Affordability to Every Resident (WATER) Task Force, a new advisory group focused on water affordability, transparency, and long-term sustainability. 

The task force will bring together residents, business representatives, and property managers to provide input on how the City delivers clean, safe, and affordable drinking water while meeting the water utility’s legal, financial, and operational obligations. 

The WATER Task Force will strengthen community understanding of how water systems are funded and managed. Task force members will learn about the complex trade-offs involved in water rate setting, infrastructure investment, and maintaining reliable service, while also exploring opportunities to expand affordability programs for residents.

Supporting the 2027 Budget Process 

The task force will play a key role as the City begins development of its 2027 budget, which includes setting water utility rates. 

The rate-setting process must balance several priorities, including: 

• Long-term infrastructure planning to ensure system reliability and sustainability 
• Capital investments to maintain and upgrade water infrastructure 
• Ongoing operations and maintenance to deliver safe, high-quality drinking water 

Task Force Responsibilities 

Members of the WATER Task Force will serve in an advisory capacity to the City by: 

• Providing input on current and future water affordability and conservation programs 
• Participating in discussions and offering feedback as the Cost-of-Service Study progresses 
• Advising on water rate structures that maintain financial and operational stability while improving affordability and equitable access 
• Helping promote transparency and public understanding of how water rates are developed and why certain decisions are made 

Recruitment and Timeline 

Recruitment for the WATER Task Force begins March 4, 2026, with applications due by 5 p.m. on March 26, 2026. Selected applicants will participate in short video interviews as part of the selection process. 

City Council is expected to appoint task force members the week of March 30, with onboarding and meetings beginning the week of April 6. 

Task force members will be invited to attend key community engagement events related to the 2027 budget, including: 

• April 6: Initial 2027 Budget Priorities Presentation 
• April 22: City Council Budget Town Hall

Biweekly meetings are anticipated between April and July, with key reporting updates scheduled for July 6 and July 20. 

Task Force Composition 

The WATER Task Force will include City Council liaison(s), nine community members, and City staff support. Task force members must successfully complete onboarding and background checks. 

The City is seeking diverse perspectives from across the community. The group will include:

• Seven residents 
• One business owner 
• One property manager 

Applicants must have lived in Westminster for at least one year and be registered voters, consistent with requirements for City boards and commissions. Residents currently serving on another City board or commission are also eligible to participate. 

While not required, professional experience in areas such as finance, water resources, budgeting, or utility management is encouraged. 

How to Apply 

Residents interested in serving on the WATER Task Force can apply online. Those who prefer a paper application may contact the Westminster City Clerk’s Office at 303-658-2161. 

For additional information, residents can contact Andrea Song at asong@westminsterco.gov.