June 18, 2026
Re: application of updated Flat Rate utility charge
To Utility customers,
It has come to the Town's attention that a number of properties with non-functioning water meters have been billed at the minimum metered rate. Under the Town's utility policy, properties without a functioning water meter should be billed at the applicable flat-rate utility charge until such time as the meter is repaired, replaced, or otherwise restored to proper operation.
The minimum metered charge is intended to apply only where a functioning meter is accurately recording water consumption. Where a meter cannot be read or is not operating properly, actual water usage cannot be determined, and the flat-rate charge applies. In practice, most properties with functioning water meters consume more than the minimum volume and are billed accordingly based on their actual water usage.
As part of the Town's recently updated Consolidated Rates and Fees Bylaw, the flat-rate utility charge was increased to more fairly reflect the actual cost of providing water and utility services to properties where water consumption cannot be accurately measured through a functioning meter.
Town staff are currently reviewing properties where water meters are not operating correctly to determine what steps may be required at each location to achieve accurate metering. Depending on the circumstances, this may involve meter repair or replacement, removal of obstructions restricting access to the meter, or other corrective measures necessary to ensure the meter is functioning properly.
Where property owner involvement is required, affected owners will be contacted directly by Town staff. Until a meter is restored to proper operation, the applicable flat-rate utility charge will apply in accordance with Town policy and the Consolidated Rates and Fees Bylaw.
Sincerely,
David Henderson B.Sc., M.B.A
Senior Administrative Officer
Traditional Territory of the Salt River, Tthebatthie Denesyline,
and Northwest Territory Metis Nations
Email: sao@fortsmith.ca