Alexander Leach, Editor
Public Works Manager Lane Cleroux answered some questions regarding the rising water costs in Cobden and the reasons behind them, published below. His answers are in quotations.
How can current residents reduce or mitigate the costs of their water bills in the meantime while developments to allow for new residents are underway?
“The present rate structure for water and wastewater is a flat rate with the exception of the 3 properties that are volume charged. Although every resident on the flat rate is charged the same amount, using less consumption of water can actually reduce the overall budget for these systems. The OCWA contract is a cost plus that is budgeted for salaries & benefits, chemicals, sludge haulage (Waterwater), electricity, services, supplies and equipment. At the end of each year, the operating charges are reconciliated based on expenses. Many of these expenses are fixed costs but items such has electricity, chemicals and sludge haulage (Waterwater) can very based the amount of water treated.”
What resources are available for older residents without internet available, to deal with the temporary rising costs?
“Copies of the FAQ are available at the Municipal Office and on the Township’s website.”
The October 21st Council Meeting included a comment from Councillor Nicholson that there was no other options in place for replacing OCWA’s agreement. Is the council satisfied with the organization’s work despite the rising costs?
“Many of the costs in the OCWA cost plus contract are fixed cost and wouldn’t change if the Township was operating the systems. During the October 21st meeting, staff were asked to bring a report on other options halfway through the contract extension.”
“I can’t really speak to why it was done. I think the big thing was that all the changing regulaations since Walkerton and all the new regulations, and OWCA with their experience in running treatment plants and distribution systems.”
When can we expect to see a decrease in water bill costs?
“The wastewater plant is being debentured for 30 years and the increase in the wastewater fees are to cover annual debt payment.”
As for when the plant is finished: “We are in the commissioning stage, so it should be within this year. They’re making sure everything is operational and getting ready each area of the plant and testing.”
