How much do I pay for water?

All properties pay a $10 parcel fee each year for having a water connection. Metered properties (generally commercial, industrial, institutional and multi-family) pay $0.40 per cubic meter of consumption. Single family home properties pay a flat fee of $156 per year. (Information based on 2011 rates)

What is the City’s cost for water supply? Does Campbell River pay a tax, or rental for a water license? And is it based on consumption, or a flat rate?

The City pays BC Hydro and purchases a water license from the Province based on consumption. The City’s supply is capped, and to apply to increase our water supply, we would likely be asked to demonstrate conservation efforts to ensure responsible use of this valuable resource. 

What is the City’s cost to deliver the water? 

The operational cost to treat and deliver water is approximately $0.36 per cubic meter. This does not include the cost of ongoing capital upgrades and renewal, which are dependent on annual capital plans.  

Do areas other than residents and businesses in Campbell River use City water? 

The Strathcona Regional District Area D and three local First Nations pay for bulk supply of Campbell River water because connecting to the City’s existing system is the most affordable way for them to provide water to their residents and businesses. 

Do the rates currently paid by residents supplement reserves for eventual upgrades?

As water is a utility, all monies collected for water are required by legislation to be used for water. Portions of the utility fees collected are used for day-to-day operations and portions are allocated for future capital improvements.