Shelburne: Water Rates Could Skyrocket

Residents of Shelburne are facing a large increase on their water bill. The town has applied to the province's regulatory board for an increase because the utility is facing a $200,000 shortfall. If approved, water bills in an average household could jump from $820 per year to $1,400. It represents an increase of 70 percent. CAO Dylan Heide says the utility is in the red because consumption has declined and costs over-runs associated with a major line extension project.



Heide says the town could look at reducing the water rates once the utility is in a better financial position. The new rates could take effect on January 1st. However, no dates for a regulatory hearing have been set.