Shelburne: Proposed Water Rates Concern Residents

Some residents of Shelburne say they simply can't afford a 70 percent hike on their water bills. The town is asking for the increase to help dig out of a deficit and stabilize the utility. If approved, it would mean household water bills would be in the area of $800 annually or $186 per quarter. Former Mayor PG Comeau says money is already tight for many people in the county.



Meanwhile, CAO for the town Dylan Heide says they can't maintain the status quo. The increase is needed or the utilities deficit will balloon to nearly $800,000 in two years. However, he is hopeful new customers - like Cooke Aquaculture and its proposal to build a new fish plant - will come online to help.



The Nova Scotia Utility and Review will file its decision by the end of March. If approved, the rates would take effect April 1.