Kimberley Council Approves Urgent 5% Increase in Sewer, Water Rates

URGENT UPDATE: The City of Kimberley has just announced a significant increase in sewer and waterworks rates, effective in 2026. This decision, made during the latest council meeting on November 24, is set to impact residents financially as sewer rates will rise by 5%.

Residents can expect their quarterly sewer bill to increase by $6.06, pushing the total from $120.96 to $127.02. This hike will generate an additional $119,000 annually for the city. Water rates will also see a rise of $6.84, increasing the quarterly cost from $136.83 to $143.67, contributing an extra $134,000 each year.

Moreover, bulk water rates will surge by 15%, bringing the cost to $1 per cubic meter. This adjustment is necessary for “full cost recovery” as stated by city officials. Key users of bulk water include Resorts of the Canadian Rockies for snowmaking and Trickle Creek Golf Course for irrigation.

Mayor Don McCormick emphasized the importance of these increases for infrastructure renewal, stating, “We need to keep a close eye on what we need for infrastructure renewal.” The only dissenting voice during the vote was Councillor Kevin Dunnebacke, who did not provide comments on his opposition.

This decision is crucial for residents to prepare for upcoming budget adjustments in their household expenses. The next city council meeting, scheduled for December 8, will be the final assembly for the year, where further discussions on financial plans may take place.

Stay informed as we track the implications of these rate increases and their effects on the community. For a detailed overview, the full council meeting is available for viewing on the City of Kimberley’s YouTube channel.