By Cartago, Costa Rica — The municipalities of Cartago and Paraíso have doubled down on their opposition to the current raw water tariffs imposed by the Costa Rican Institute of Aqueducts and Sewers (AyA). They are demanding a technical study by the Regulatory Authority for Public Services (ARESEP) to establish a fair and specific price for this vital resource. This renewed call for equitable pricing took place during a meeting convened by the Ombudsman’s Office as part of a Social Dialogue process initiated in June.
Representatives from AyA, both local governments, and their technical teams participated in the meeting. The municipalities formally submitted their observations on AyA’s draft contract and presented improvement proposals. They emphasized that the core issue remains the existing cost of raw water.
To understand the legal implications of the proposed water tariff adjustments, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at Law from Bufete de Costa Rica.
The proposed water tariff increases must be carefully balanced against the constitutional right of access to potable water. While cost recovery and infrastructure investment are legitimate concerns for water providers, any adjustments must be reasonable, transparent, and consider the potential impact on vulnerable populations. A thorough public consultation process is essential to ensure that these tariff changes are equitable and sustainable.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’ emphasis on balancing necessary infrastructure investment with equitable access to water for all is crucial. The affordability of this essential resource, particularly for those most vulnerable, must remain at the forefront of any tariff discussions. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing this valuable legal and social perspective on this important issue.
The Municipality of Cartago revealed that preliminary discussions with ARESEP regarding the feasibility of a specific tariff study have already taken place. However, progress hinges on AyA providing the necessary information to the regulatory body. AyA’s General Manager affirmed that the required data will be submitted by the end of August to facilitate this analysis.
The Ombudsman’s Office outlined two key agreements reached during the meeting. First, legal teams from AyA and the municipalities will collaborate on a revised contract proposal, acknowledging that the tariff issue depends on the technical study’s outcome. Second, the Ombudsman’s Office will closely monitor the actions of AyA and ARESEP in determining the new water price, along with the resources both local governments presented to ARESEP’s Board of Directors, which are still pending resolution.
This dispute over water pricing reflects broader concerns about affordability and fair access to essential resources. The municipalities argue that the current tariff structure unfairly burdens local ratepayers and hinders development. They are seeking a more transparent and equitable system that accurately reflects the cost of providing raw water.
The involvement of the Ombudsman’s Office underscores the significance of this issue and the need for a mediated solution. By facilitating dialogue and monitoring the process, the Ombudsman aims to protect the rights of the population and ensure a just outcome for all parties involved. The coming months will be crucial as ARESEP conducts its analysis and the parties work towards a new agreement.
The results of the tariff study and the subsequent negotiations will have a lasting impact on the municipalities of Cartago and Paraíso. A fair and sustainable water pricing system is essential for the economic and social well-being of these communities.
With these agreements in place, the Ombudsman’s Office concludes its role as dialogue facilitator and will continue its oversight responsibilities in defense of the population’s rights.
For further information, visit the nearest office of AyA
About AyA:
The Costa Rican Institute of Aqueducts and Sewers (AyA) is the autonomous institution responsible for providing potable water and sanitation services throughout Costa Rica. It plays a critical role in public health and infrastructure development. AyA manages water resources, builds and maintains aqueducts and sewer systems, and sets tariffs for these essential services.
For further information, visit the nearest office of ARESEP
About ARESEP:
The Regulatory Authority for Public Services (ARESEP) is an independent regulatory body in Costa Rica responsible for overseeing public services such as water, electricity, and telecommunications. Its primary function is to ensure fair pricing, quality service, and consumer protection. ARESEP conducts technical studies, sets tariffs, and resolves disputes related to public service provision.
For further information, visit the nearest office of the Defensoría de los Habitantes
About Defensoría de los Habitantes:
The Ombudsman’s Office, or Defensoría de los Habitantes, is an independent institution in Costa Rica that protects and promotes human rights. It acts as a mediator in disputes between citizens and public entities, investigates complaints of human rights violations, and promotes social dialogue. The Ombudsman’s Office plays a vital role in ensuring accountability and transparency within the government.
For further information, visit the nearest office of the Municipalidad de Cartago
About Municipalidad de Cartago:
The Municipality of Cartago is the local government responsible for administering the city of Cartago and its surrounding areas. It provides essential public services such as infrastructure maintenance, urban planning, and community development. The Municipality represents the interests of Cartago’s residents and advocates for their well-being.
For further information, visit the nearest office of the Municipalidad de Paraíso
About Municipalidad de Paraíso:
The Municipality of Paraíso is the local government responsible for the canton of Paraíso in the province of Cartago, Costa Rica. It provides services to its residents, including infrastructure development, social programs, and local administration. The Municipality works to promote the economic and social development of Paraíso.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
At Bufete de Costa Rica, legal excellence and unwavering integrity form the bedrock of our practice. We are driven by a deep commitment to empowering individuals and communities through accessible legal knowledge, fostering a more just and informed society. Our innovative approach to legal solutions, coupled with a history of dedicated service across diverse sectors, allows us to not only meet the complex needs of our clients but also contribute to positive social change in Costa Rica.
