Whitchurch-Stouffville Council approved a new financial plan that sets the stage for how the town manages its water and sewer services and determines future utility rates for residents.
The Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville approved the Water and Wastewater Financial Plan and Rate Study to meet requirements under the provincial Safe Drinking Water Act, 2002. This document is a mandatory step for renewing the town’s drinking water license.
The financial planning for the town, which manages 190 kilometers of watermains and serves about 12,600 connections, is facing pressure from several directions. One major factor is the annual cost increase from York Region, which supplies water and wastewater treatment services. The region increases its wholesale rates by approximately three percent each year.
Additionally, the town has noted a trend of declining water usage, with residential consumption dropping by 3.4 litres per account per day. As fixed costs remain, this decrease in usage adds further pressure to the budget.
To address these financial challenges, the town has proposed a 2026 budget that includes a 4.4% blended rate increase for water and wastewater, alongside a 2% increase to the capital infrastructure fee. According to the town, these adjustments are expected to add about $60 to the annual water and sewer costs for the average household. The draft budget for 2026 accounts for nearly $22 million in operating costs and $11.7 million dedicated to capital work.
Currently, homeowners with standard water meters under one inch pay a capital infrastructure fee of $26.01 per quarter, or $104.06 annually. Residents can find more details on current rates and the water and wastewater budget on the town’s website.
