North Bay Water Bills going up 5%

North Bay City Council has approved the 2024 water and wastewater operating budget in the net amount of $26.2 million, with a shift in the rate structure that bases a larger portion of billing on volume of water used.

"This budget continues to invest in our water and wastewater infrastructure, to ensure reliable services for the community,” said Deputy Mayor Maggie Horsfield. “Additionally, the shift in the rate structure will result in water charges that better reflect actual usage, giving users more control over their bills and moving towards a fairer system."

The 2024 budget is up by approximately $1.25 million, or five per cent, compared to 2023.

To help achieve a more equitable model of billing, the water and wastewater rate structure will be based more on usage, shifting this year from 50 per cent fixed and 50 per cent variable to 45 per cent fixed and 55 per cent variable.

The water and wastewater budget is approved separately from the 2024 operating and capital budgets because it is funded from user fees and not property tax.

Operating and capital budget deliberations will get underway later this month. Residents can share their comments via email at budget2024@northbay.ca