St. Paul council considers new water and sewer service bylaw

On June 27, St. Paul town council discussed a proposed bylaw outlining significant changes to water and sewer services, potentially impacting homeowners’ costs.  

Key changes include shifting from bi-monthly to monthly billing, aimed at improving budgeting for residents according to Chief Financial Officer Mitchel Bachelet. Proposed water rates are slated to decrease from $1.60 to $1.31 per cubic metre, while sewer rates would decrease from $1.20 to $1.00 per cubic metre. The existing $28.78 water flat rate will be replaced with a variable monthly water service charge based on metre size, ranging from $17 for a 5/8-inch metre to $108.60 for a four-inch metre. Simultaneously, the sewer flat rate would increase from $26.76 to $36.10 per month.  

Mayor Maureen Miller emphasized the addition of new charges, a $17 water and $9 wastewater capital replacement contribution to fund future infrastructure needs, noting gaps in federal and provincial funding for such projects.  

CAO Steven Jeffery, presenting examples, explained that residential users with standard 5/8-inch metres would see a 15 percent increase in their fixed water service charge, from $28.76 every two months to $17 per month. Larger metres would also incur higher charges. Jeffery noted that businesses might see stability or even slight decreases in water bills due to higher consumption levels.  

The proposed revisions stem from a recent Utility Rate Study assessing community water and sewer costs and ensuring rates cover expenses and reserve funds for infrastructure replacement. 

After amendments, the council approved the first reading of the bylaw, with further revisions expected at the next meeting. The council requested a comparison of rates with other municipalities, aiming for full implementation next year if passed.