Utility rate increase approved for West Kelowna

West Kelowna council has given final approval to new utility rates that the city says reflect the costs to provide the services.

Council approved the following utility rate changes for 2022:

• An $8.25-per-quarter increase in Rose Valley water rates to cover anticipated capital and increased operating costs.
• An $8.75-per-quarter increase in Powers Creek water rates to fund short-term debt to replace aging infrastructure and to cover increased operating costs at the treatment plant.
• A $2.78-per-quarter increase in sewer rates, which the city has not adjusted in the last four years, to build reserves and to fund debt for future infrastructure upgrades.
• A net $4.97-per-quarter reduction in waste management services fees, to account for a difference between higher landfill tipping fees and lower curbside collection costs.