New rates for Water, Wastewater and Solid Waste come into effect on March 15, 2024. This is the first increase since 2019.
While utility rates have remained the same, the cost to run the water treatment plant have increased. The Town of Rocky Mountain House charges a base rate to cover the standard operating costs the water treatment plant and lagoon to keep the lights on, so to speak, whether the plant produces 2,500 m3 per day or 6,000 m3 per day.
However, other operating costs increase with water demand, such as chemicals, filtration membranes, equipment and treatment upgrades, etc. The more water Town residents use, the costlier it is to supply. Council has chosen to make the largest increase to water and sewer consumption rates, because you, the end-user, have control over how much water you use.
The Town of Rocky Mountain House does not make a profit on utilities. The Town only charges what it costs to deliver utilities to residents and businesses.
FAQ: utility rate increase
Why now?
Utility rates are being adjusted to ensure the existing Water Treatment Plant and new Wastewater Treatment Plant will operate sustainably, without subsidy from taxation.
Utilities operate on a cost-recovery model. This means the Town only charges what it costs to deliver utilities to residents and businesses. The Town of Rocky Mountain House does not make a profit on utilities.
The last utility rate increase was in July 2019. Since then, provincial and federal environmental regulation changes have forced the Town of Rocky Mountain House to break ground on a new mechanical wastewater treatment plant. This $30-million project is underway, with $20
million in grant funding from higher levels of government, a $2.5 Million investment by Clearwater County and $7.5 million from the Town’s capital budget.
New utility rates coming into effect on March 15 are supported by a 2023 utility rate study, to ensure rates charged cover operating and capital costs for current and future operations.
Are residential solid waste fees going up, too?
The solid waste base rate for residential properties will increase by $1.10 per month. There is no change to Eco Centre fees for excess and oversized garbage.
How much more will my bill be?
As of March 15, the average residential property consuming 14 m3 of water per month will see a $13.35 increase in monthly billing for water and wastewater and $1.10 increase for solid waste.
Can I sign up for utility automatic payments?
Yes. Download and complete enrolment form and return it to the Town Office, or by email to utilities@trmh.com.
How can I reduce my utility bill?
If you use more, you will pay more. Cut back at the tap to reduce your bill each month. Read on for tips on how to reduce your water consumption at home without compromising your lifestyle.
Dreaming of warmer weather? Here are some springtime garden reminders:
Questions? Call the Town Office during regular business hours at 403-845-2866. The Town Office is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday.
Are you interested in taking a tour* of the Rocky Mountain House Water Treatment Plant? Fill out the form below and we will follow up with you.
*Tours are scheduled when we reach a minimum participation of 8 people. (Maximum capacity is 12).
