Five-year plan to spike drinking water, sewer system fees green lit by Regional District

The Regional District of Fraser-Fort George has increased drinking water and sewer system fees.

According to the RDFFG, the fees for these local area services have remained the same since being established, or in some cases, for over 30 years.

Rate increases in the 5% to 10% range over the next five years are now in place for Azu, Crooked River, Adams Road, Buckhorn and, West Lake areas.

The fees need to be increased for:

• inflation and the increased operating and maintenance costs
• more stringent monitoring and sampling regulations
• refurbishing and replacing aging infrastructure

The Regional District also issued the following grants:

Electoral Area A (Salmon River-Lakes)

Ness Lake Recreation Commission for $310 for a volunteer appreciation Christmas breakfast

Salmon Valley Community Association for $4,850 for operating expenses

Salmon Valley Gymkhana Club for $4,950 for operating expenses

Electoral Area F (Willow River-Upper Fraser Valley)

Willow River Volunteer Fire Department for $25,000 for operating expenses

Electoral Area H (Robson Valley-Canoe)

Valemount Curling Club for $7,000 for insurance

Valemount Learning Society for $2,000 for farmers’ market operating expenses