Water rates to increase under proposed changes
- Details
- Published on Tuesday, October 27, 2015
Neepawa Council Briefs: Tuesday, Oct, 20
The water and sewer rates for the Town of Neepawa are being reviewed. These rates were last evaluated in 2008.
The 2015 application is proposing a change from the existing four step rate structure (Domestic, Intermediate, Wholesale and Special) to a two step structure (Domestic and Wholesale). The proposed rates would also increase.
The rise in rates for domestic and wholesale will vary depending on usage. An example of the increase that was given at the council meeting estimated that an average household usage of 14 cubic metres per quarter would see an increase per year from $192.87 to $271.40. Another example given, this time for a family using 42 cubic metres per quarter would see that rate go from $458.60 to $665.64 a year.
Provincially mandated improvements to municipal water infrastructure are the main reason for the rate increases. The town is legally obligated to accept the required infrastructure improvements. The complete presentation outlining the rates can be seen on the Town of Neepawa’s website.
Secondary Suites
Town Council wants to take a closer look at the operation of secondary suites in Neepawa. A secondary suite is a self-contained dwelling that’s part of a larger pre-existing housing unit. With the influx of new arrivals to the community, these suites have been popping up in many homes.
Currently, town by-laws don’t support secondary suites, but deputy mayor Isobel Jarema has asked for an examination of the current regulations. She believes that the inclusion of these suites could allow for greater housing options, but wants to make sure they do meet zoning, building and safety requirements. Council has agreed to examine the by-laws to more clearly define the regulations that must be followed.
Neepawa Natives request
The Neepawa Natives have asked the Town of Neepawa to back its annual cash draw. The fundraising project requires a $25,000 deposit to Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries as part of the application criteria.
In the past, individual supporters of the junior A hockey team, along with local businesses, have joined together to come up with the money. This year, the club has asked the Town if it could put up the deposit for the three to four months that are required to cover the lottery sales time frame. After that time period has concluded, the money would be returned to the Town. Council considered and rejected the request, based on provisions under the administrative act, which they said would not allow them to aid the team in this manner.
The annual cash draw is the team’s largest fund raising project. In 2014-2015, the revenue brought in was $80,800 and the total prize payouts were $33,775. Once expenses were also factored in, the club made a net profit of $41,288.
