The Town of Rocky Mountain House base and consumption rates for residential and commercial water, wastewater and solid waste will increase on March 15, 2024.

Town officials say the largest increases will be to water and wastewater consumption rates per cubic metre. Officials note this means if you use less, you pay less. Council has chosen this user-pay model coupled with a goal of achieving full cost-recovery on utilities as part of its long-term strategic plan to maintain the community’s assets.

Council approved the new rates with its 2024 budget. Officials say these increases are supported by a 2023 utility rate study, to ensure rates charged cover operating and capital costs for current and future operations.

Frequently asked questions:

How much more will my bill be?
As of March 15, the average residential property consuming 14 m3 of water per month will see a $13.35 increase in monthly billing for water and wastewater, and $1.10 increase for solid waste.

As much as possible, we’ve made these changes on the consumption side, so households and businesses can have more control over their usage and therefore their bill.

How can I reduce my utility bill?
If you use more, you will pay more. Check your indoor and outdoor plumbing fixtures for leaks and cut back at the tap to reduce your bill each month.

Why now?
Utility rates are being adjusted to ensure the existing Water Treatment Plant and new Wastewater Treatment Plant will operate sustainably, without subsidy from taxation.

Utilities operate on a cost-recovery model. This means the Town only charges what it costs to deliver utilities to residents and businesses. The Town of Rocky Mountain House does not make a profit on utilities.

The last utility rate increase was in July 2019. Since then, provincial and federal environmental regulation changes have forced the Town of Rocky Mountain House to break ground on a new mechanical wastewater treatment plant. This $30-million project is underway, with $20 million in grant funding from higher levels of government, a $2.5 million investment by Clearwater County and $7.5 million from the Town’s capital budget.

Are residential solid waste fees going up, too?
The solid waste base rate for residential properties will increase by $1.10 per month. There is no change to Eco Centre fees for excess and oversized garbage.

Can I sign up for utility e-billing or automatic payments?
Yes. Download and complete enrolment form and return it to the Town Office, or by email to utilities@trmh.ca.

Can I take a tour of the Water Treatment Plant?
Absolutely. Make your request online at www.rockymtnhouse.com/p/save-water, or call the Town’s Communications Coordinator at 403-845-2866.

I have more questions. How can I get in touch?
Call the Town Office during regular business hours at 403-845-2866. The Town Office is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday for in-person inquiries.