Lethbridge residents are one step closer to seeing a major upgrade to their wastewater treatment plant, as city council prepares to vote on a $261 million borrowing bylaw on July 28, 2026. The money would fund a new treatment line at the Lethbridge Wastewater Treatment Plant, boosting its capacity by 20 million litres per day.
The total project cost is estimated at $285 million, with $24 million coming from city reserves and the rest through the borrowing bylaw. If passed, the city will issue debentures through the Government of Alberta or another authorized financial institution.
The expansion is needed because the current plant was last upgraded in 1989 and often runs at or above its 50-million-litre daily limit. City officials say the extra capacity will support new housing and businesses while including a pre-treatment facility for industrial customers.
Residents will see the cost reflected in their wastewater bills. From 2027 to 2030, rates are set to rise by 18.05 per cent each year. By 2030, the average home will pay an extra $23.05 per month. Even with the increase, the city says local rates will remain among the lowest in Alberta.
Construction is expected to finish by fall 2030, with no service disruptions planned for homes, businesses, or regional customers.
Before the vote, residents can share their views by contacting the City Clerk’s Office or filing a petition. Council gave first reading to the bylaw on June 23.
