Fort Frances water/sewer bills increasing 4.5%

Residents in Fort Frances will pay 4.54% more for water and sewer services this year.

It increases the bill from $1,149.00 to $1,201 for the year.

That works out to a monthly rise of $4.35.

Industrial, institutional and commercial users with water meters will see rates increase 4.49%, though the minimum rate rises $4.51%.

Combined, the increased rates will generate $6,482,478 in revenue, specifically for improvements to the water and sewer system.

That is an increase of $244,719.16 over what the town expected to collect last year.

In a report, administration notes that more than $50 million is needed to upgrade sewer and water lines.

The town’s asset management plan identifies over 30km of sanitary sewer in poor or worse condition, costing $29.5 million to replace.

Over 40 km of watermain in similar condition has been identified, costing $22.2 million to replace.

The report also notes that its sanitary lift stations need repairs, estimated at $1.5 million or more.

Administration also notes the need for ongoing maintenance at the water treatment plant and wastewater treatment plant.

The water plant is 40 years old, while the wastewater plant is 60 years old.