The City is looking to increase water and sewer rates next year to renew aging infrastructure and accommodate Fredericton’s growing population.
This is what it could look like:
In the coming weeks, Fredericton City Council will vote on whether water rates should go up $3.90 on a monthly basis for the average customer.
But why should water rates go up?
The City’s water and sewer system is a critical service that must be renewed and well managed.
“When we invest in water and sewer infrastructure, the City is able to provide a safe and reliable water system for all," said Alicia Keating, treasurer for the City of Fredericton. “A modest revenue increase is needed so the City can continue to replace aging infrastructure and to prevent pipes from breaking.”
Last year, the City replaced 3.8 kilometres of water main and 2.9 kilometres of sanitary sewer main, which is the same distance from Fredericton City Hall to the Hugh John Flemming Forestry Centre – and back. These investments have also resulted in less leaks and water main breaks in Fredericton.
Even with an increase, Fredericton would still be one of the lowest cost cities to pay for water in New Brunswick.
Fredericton’s water utility is self-funded and remains separate from the City’s general fund budget and property tax system. If approved, water rates would increase after April 1, 2025 and mailed to residents on a quarterly basis. The average water consumption in Fredericton has dropped by 29 per cent over the past 18 years. Residents consumed 6.7 million cubic metres of water in 2005 and consumed around 5.8 cubic metres of water in 2023.
So why would residents have to pay more?
Fredericton is an old city with 100-year-old pipes. That means, it would cost the City $23.3 million to renew all of its water and sewer infrastructure. If Council approves these new rates, the City will be spending $17.1 million to replace its old infrastructure.
“We have a system that is costly to run. But the goal has always been to provide clean, safe water that includes a dependable wastewater treatment system our residents can count on,” said Neil Thomas, a water and sewer engineer for the City of Fredericton.
Fredericton City Council will vote on the water rate proposal in November.