The 2022 water and sewer rate hikes have been approved.
Timmins council gave the OK for a $53 increase for 2022 — $22 for water and $31 for wastewater. In 2021, rates went up $50 — $21 for water and $29 for sewer.
The amount of cash being offered through the low-income water and wastewater rebate program is also increasing, with the rebate growing to $100 from $50 to offset future utility bill increases.
To qualify for the program, the registered homeowner must fill out an application by Dec. 31. An application is required every year and the person must be receiving Guaranteed Income Supplement, Ontario Disability Support Program or Ontario Works. The property must also be assessed under the residential tax classification.
The water and sewer rates were first presented at a Dec. 1 meeting. There was no discussion on the item when they were approved. Coun. Joe Campbell was the only vote against the increase. Coun. Kristin Murray was not at the meeting.
Major projects budgeted for water in 2022 include:
- $2.35 million for watermain relining
- $1 million for the Crawford watermain installation (with an application filed for the project that could get $733,300 in provincial funds)
- $1.1 million on connecting link infrastructure
- $250,000 for the water needs study
Major projects budgeted for wastewater in 2022 include:
- $3.08 million for upgrades to the McIntyre pump station
- $110,000 for upgrades to Bob’s Lake Lagoon
- $1 million for wastewater lining
- $640,000 for connecting link infrastructure
- $500,00 for wastewater repairs
- $250,000 for wastewater needs study
The water and sewer rate hike is in addition to the taxation increase in the 2022 budget, which has not been approved.
The draft budget for the city includes a 1.91 per cent net expenditure increase. The budget documents do not include what that will cost homeowners on their tax bills.
That number also does not include budgets from boards such as Cochrane District Social Services Administration Board, conservation authority, health unit, and others that will also potentially impact the tax levy.
