Purpose of the study
The study aims to ensure long-term sustainability of water and wastewater services by:
- Identifying future infrastructure needs
- Estimating operating costs over the next 10 years
- Reviewing the current rate structure
- Recommending updated rates to support full cost recovery
Growth forecasts
The County anticipates over 3,300 new customers by 2034, with corresponding increases in water and wastewater volumes.
Capital investment needs
Between 2026 and 2034, the County will need to invest approximately $158 million to address capital infrastructure needs in the water and wastewater systems.
- $59 million in water system improvements
- $99 million in wastewater infrastructure
Major projects include upgrades to the Caledonia Wastewater Treatment Plant and the improvement and expansion of water storage facilities.
Rate adjustments
To fund these improvements and maintain service levels, the study has identified the need for increasing water and wastewater rates.
- Water rates: increase by an average of 5.5% annually over the next ten years
- Wastewater rates: increase by an average of 1.7% annually over the next ten years
What does this mean for residents?
The average combined annual residential bill is projected to rise from $1,091 in 2025 to $1,514 in 2034.
Special charges
Water and wastewater rates include special charges for higher-use and specialized services to ensure fairness and effective cost recovery. These special charges have also been recalculated as part of the study.
|
Category |
Use |
2026 Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
|
Fire Protection |
Water |
$2.35 million (13% of net water system costs) |
|
Bulk Water |
Water |
$2.74 per cubic metre |
|
Septic/Holding |
Wastewater |
$18.95 per cubic metre |
|
Leachate |
Wastewater |
$802,518 + $19.56 per cubic metre |
Financial planning
Capital projects will be funded through a mix of development charges, reserve funds, debentures, and other recoveries. No provincial or federal grants are currently assumed.
