Water Rates up 5%

North Bay City Council Approves Water Budget with New Rate Structure

North Bay City Council has approved the 2025 water and wastewater operating budget of $27.5 million, shifting the rate structure for a second consecutive year so that billing is based more on usage.

The 2025 budget is up $1.3 million from last year, or 4.99 percent. For the average North Bay household using 14 to 20 cubic meters of water each month, the means a monthly increase of between $3.05 and $5.93.

“This year’s budget is about maintaining and improving our water and wastewater systems while continuing to make the way we bill fairer,” said Deputy Mayor Maggie Horsfield. “By basing more of the charges on usage, we’re giving residents more control over their bills while also promoting responsible water use.”

A significant portion of the 4.99 per cent increase – about 3.38 percent – is going toward maintaining and upgrading critical infrastructure like water mains and treatment facilities. The rest covers rising operational costs, including higher prices for fuel, utilities, and chemicals.

The variable portion depends on how much water is used. The fixed portion of the water bill – based on meter size – stays the same no matter how much water is used.

This year’s shift in the rate structure adjusts the balance between fixed and variable charges, moving from 45 percent fixed and 55 percent variable to 40 percent fixed and 60 percent variable in 2025.

“It’s crucial that our water system runs efficiently, safely, and sustainably,” said Coun. Lana Mitchell, Chair of Council’s Infrastructure and Operations Committee. “This budget allows us to maintain and improve the infrastructure our community relies on every day, while ensuring rates remain fair and manageable for residents.”

Quick Facts:

·        Municipal water and wastewater services in North Bay are funded by end users, as required by the province.

·        The City serves approximately 16,900 water and wastewater customers.

·        North Bay maintains over 574 kilometers of mains, including 304 kilometers within the water system and 270 kilometers within the wastewater system.

·        The City also operates the wastewater treatment facility on Memorial Drive, the water treatment plant on Lakeside Drive, and 17 sewage lift stations.