New utility rates will barely affect average user

Times Editor

 

A new utility rate aimed at conserving water is causing quite the stir for the Town of Strathmore.

At a special council meeting on April 26, the potable water rate was raised, but the fixed charge rate was reduced by 50 per cent. The ultimate result is a slight increase to the average water user.

Exaggerated reports suggested that utility rates will climb as much as 200 per cent, which angered town council.

The average resident, who uses 11 cubic metres a month, will see a 0.46 cent increase in their water rate. On the higher scale, if a household uses 15 cubic metres, their rate increase would be $3.98. On the lower end, if a household uses just five cubic metres, their water bill will be reduced by $4.82. 

Obviously, large families and big commercial businesses that use lots of water, such as car washes and hotels, will see a much higher utility bill.

To see exactly how much your water rate will be effected, look at your average monthly usage on your bill, then visit the Town of Strathmore website at www.strathmore.ca.