Residents to see a 5% increase in their water bill. Businesses to see water costs rise by 30.00+ per Month.

It only took one budget meeting on Monday evening to finalize the water and wastewater budget. Council finalized a plan to increase residential fees for water/wastewater at 5%. Budget meeting schedules for Tuesday and Wednesday were cancelled.

Council is exploring the possibility of transitioning from the current 50% fixed, 50% variable rate structure to either a 45% fixed/55% variable or a 40% fixed/60% variable structure.

If council adopts 40 fixed/60 variable, local businesses could see their water fees increase $30.00 per month or more for 2024.

In the past years, not for profit organizations like the Ski Hill and YMCA had expressed concerns that the transition to higher variable percentage as it would be difficult for them to absorb the extra costs.

The finalized budget is set to go before Council for approval on Jan. 30. Meanwhile, Council is exploring the possibility of transitioning (as mentioned above) from the current 50% fixed, 50% variable rate structure to either a 45% fixed/55% variable or a 40% fixed/60% variable structure.

About 3.5% of this increase is allocated for investments in water and wastewater infrastructure, ensuring the City's commitment to sustainable services. The remaining portion is attributed to rising operational costs, including fuel, utilities, and chemicals.

The City of North Bay is encouraging the public to give input on the 2024 Water and Wastewater Rates. A public meeting will be held on Jan. 15. Residents can also share their comments via email at budget2024@northbay.ca