Region of Queens offices. Photo: Evan Taylor.
The Region of Queens Water Utility’s customers in Liverpool and Brooklyn are facing a potential doubling of their water bills, with hearing dates now set on the proposed rate increase.
The Nova Scotia Regulatory and Appeals Board (NSUARB) will hold a public hearing on October 9 at 10:30 a.m. in council chambers on White Point Road.
An evening session starting at 6 p.m. will be held if required.
Residents who want to speak must register with the board by September 17. Written comments can also be submitted by mail, email, or fax to the board by the same deadline. Those seeking formal intervenor status, which allows participation through evidence and cross-examination, must apply by August 22.
Consultants hired by the region warned that without immediate rate hikes, the water utility could run a deficit of more than $1 million this year, swelling to over $3.3 million by 2027/28.
If approved, the average residential water bill would rise from $330 a year to nearly $680 in the first year. The average quarterly bill would increase from $82.61 to $169.66, with smaller increases in the following two years.
The utility has struggled in recent years, including issues stemming from a 2023 lightning strike that caused significant damage to the treatment plant and led to a nine-week boil-water order.
The regulatory board could approve the increase as requested, adjust the amount, or order a higher change.
Residents can view the full water rate application on the Nova Scotia Regulatory and Appeals Board website.
