Armstrong Council Approves Urgent 8% Water Rate Hike for 2026

BREAKING: Armstrong’s water rates will surge by 8% starting next year, following a crucial decision made by the city council on August 11, 2025. This increase affects all users—commercial, industrial, and residential—as the city seeks to fund a significant $9.7 million water reservoir and supply line twinning project.

The rate hike will be implemented for commercial and industrial users on January 1, 2026, while residential users will see the change on April 1, 2026. City officials confirm that this phased approach is vital for managing long-term borrowing necessary for the extensive infrastructure project.

Officials revealed that thanks to recent legislative changes, Armstrong can now borrow approximately $9 million without the need for voter approval. The city plans to borrow $8.7 million to cover project costs, with annual debt servicing expected to exceed $500,000, aided by estimated contributions from neighboring Spallumcheen.

In a report presented to the council, officials noted,

“Due to the magnitude of the project, construction would reasonably span three fiscal years with multiple draws from the loan during that time. This results in graduated impacts of debt servicing costs over those three years.”

To mitigate the financial burden on residents, the city plans to implement equalized water rate increases of 8% annually for the next three years (2026, 2027, and 2028). This strategy aims to ensure that the necessary revenue for debt servicing is secured by the end of this three-year period.

As of now, only the 2026 water rate increase has been officially endorsed by the council. A bylaw amendment to reflect these new rates will be proposed, along with plans for community engagement regarding the city’s 2026-2030 Financial Plan.

Residents and businesses are urged to prepare for these changes, as the city emphasizes the importance of this project for the community’s long-term water infrastructure sustainability. The council meetings and updates will continue to keep the public informed as this situation develops. Share this urgent news to keep others aware of how these changes may impact them!