Benalto and Spruce View residents are among those who will see increases to their water and sewer rates in May 2013.
Red Deer County councillors approved the proposed increases following second and third reading of the fee bylaw during their meeting Dec. 4.
Many residents will see an average increase of two per cent, with few exceptions. Benalto Mobile Home Park residents will see an 18.7 per cent increase to their fixed monthly charge, translating to an extra 77 cents per month for each residence. Spruce View sewer services usage charge per cubic metre will increase to 13 cents, from 10 cents.
These larger increases more accurately reflect cost recovery needs for the services provided. Current rates are well below the necessary level.
“I think the people should be very happy with where we’re at. I don’t think they should expect a huge increase,” said Mayor Jim Wood.
The fee increases were first reviewed during council’s Nov. 6 meeting.