Espanola council has approved another increase in water and sewer rates for structures on the municipal system.
According to town treasurer, Julie Bouthillette, the rates are failing to generate enough revenue to cover the cost of the system primarily due to significant increases in the cost of operating the water and sewer treatment facilities operated by the Ontario Clean Water Agency.
Bouthillette says in the 2024 report, they had water and sewer rates would leave a 20% shortfall and even with an increase in the 2025 budget, there is still a 15% shortfall related to evolving infrastructure needs.
To cover the shortfall, council has approved an overall 16% increase in monthly rates for residential users, totaling $141.24 per month starting in the new year.
There will also be a 20% increase for metered locations.
Council has approved the increase with the new rates coming into effect on January 1, 2026.
