Shelburne: New Water Rates Approved

The Nova Scotia Utility & Review Board has approved new water rates in Town of Shelburne. However, they aren't as large as first expected. The increase for average home is 47 percent in 2014/15.  That means water bills will be in the area of $160 per quarter. Meanwhile, another 10 percent increase will be imposed in 2015/16. That hike will push bills up to $177 per quarter. The regulatory board also approved shifting around funding to help pay down the deficit on the town's water utility. The accounting move will save ratepayers in Shelburne money on water bill and means the rate hike is not as large. Originally, water rates were expected to rise 70 percent.