Representatives from Arizona American Water Co. waded through a flood of shouts, interruptions and frustration Thursday from Sun City West residents angry about a huge rate hike proposal by the utility.

Representatives from the water utility hosted an informational meeting at the Palm Ridge Recreation Center, where more than 200 residents showed up and made it clear they reject the proposed 79 percent increase.

Utility representatives Todd Walker, Thomas Broderick and Brad Cole struggled to adhere to a presentation covering the rate proposal and address one question at a time as residents continually shouted demands and questions.

The meeting ended abruptly on the cue of many residents who began to file out after a resident seized control of the microphone from Walker, the community relations manager for the utility. Walker then unplugged the microphone, signifying the unofficial end to the meeting.

Resident Randall Robinson was angered that residents were cut off.

"They're not going to shut me up," he shouted as residents began to leave the ballroom.

Many residents, however, expressed embarrassment at the behavior of fellow community members.

"It is up to us to listen and ask questions, not to grandstand and argue and be foolish about the whole thing," said Chuck Ullman, vice president for PORA. "Some people are interested in getting information. Is 79 percent correct? Maybe not, but at least get your information and then ask questions."

"I think people behaved atrociously for Sun City West."

Resident John Elliott said he apologized to water representatives for the conduct displayed during the meeting.

"I told them I really came here for information because I'd really like to have good information to petition the Arizona Corporation Commission," he said. "Water officials can't do anything about it except request."

During the presentation, water officials said the company needs the added revenue from the rate increase, which would amount to 52 cents extra per day for households in Sun City West, to pay for increases in operating costs and infrastructure repairs.

Broderick said water officials realize the ACC is not likely to grant such a large rate increase.

"I'm quite certain that the commission is not going to approve the full request that the company has submitted," he said. "I think it's safe to say that the company's request is the maximum (residents) would see, and (they'll) see some reductions to that."

But many residents were angry at such a high rate increase even being proposed.

"Most of the people in Sun City West are on fixed incomes," Robinson said. "This is becoming a very scary, unneeded thing for them to have to deal with. We understand increases, increases in reality, not increases in stupidity. I think what you're asking for is ridiculous."

The proposed hike has been submitted for approval to the ACC but will not be heard by the commission until the spring. The meeting is set to be heard March 19 at the commission offices, 1200 W. Washington St., in downtown Phoenix.

Resident Dori Russell said she is organizing a petition against the increase. She may be reached at 623-584-4737 or dorirussell@cox.net.

For information about Arizona American, visit www.azamwater.com or call customer service at 1-800-383-0834.

For a schedule of the rate hearings, visit the ACC Web site at www.cc.state.az.us or call 1-800-222-7000.