Departments
Public Works
Waterworks Rate Policy
Town of Rosthern
September 1, 2007
Under the waterworks rate policy resolution, the per gallon water rate of $7.00 per 1000 gallons will continue, as adopted under the water bylaw dated May 16, 2005, in order to maintain waterworks revenues that cover waterworks operating costs. Council will closely monitor waterworks expenditures.
Council will also monitor and plan capital infrastructure needs. Any infrastructure charges will be planned ahead time in order for residents and businesses to prepare for and adjust to any increases. A Bylaw will be passed for any water rate change.
The objective of the waterworks rate policy is to maintain waterworks that are self financing, where the users pay for the cost of the service. To accomplish this, waterworks rates need to increase over time so that the revenues continue to cover operating costs.
This waterworks policy will maintain financially independent waterworks that do not have to compete with other key municipal financial demands under the municipal general revenue fund. This will ensure our waterworks can provide safe drinking water. Also, rates that cover costs will influence consumer demand water conservation, and self-financing waterworks will reduce pressures on property taxes.