City council approved a seven percent increase for water and wastewater rates for 2013 and 2014 in order to repair the city’s aging infrastructure.
The rate increase, recommended by city staff, means that households who use an average amount of water will see their fees rise by $46.70 this year and $50.05 in 2014.
Average water and wastewater bills for Ottawa’s residents are currently $670, which would make the new bills over $700.
In addition to repairing and replacing infrastructure, the approved budget also has provisions to prevent waste and sewage from flowing into the Ottawa River.