Saanich Council Approves Drastic Utility Rate Increases for 2026

Saanich Council has approved significant increases to water and sewer flat rates, which will take effect on January 1, 2026. The latest decision follows previously approved rate changes in October 2024, which had already raised the flat rates for a typical residence with a 19mm water connection from **$76** per year to **$255** per year, marking a staggering **236%** increase.

The council’s recent meeting saw flat rates rise further to **$417** per year, reflecting an additional **63%** increase over the 2025 rates. This means that residents will face an overall rise of **449%** compared to the rates in 2024. According to council discussions, the proposed goal is to achieve a total flat rate increase of approximately **800%** from 2024 levels to establish a revenue model that balances consumption and flat rates at a **50/50** ratio.

Before the initial vote in 2024, **Harley Machielse**, the Director of Engineering, informed the council that the changes to the revenue model would have a net-zero impact on taxpayers. However, many residents are questioning this assertion in light of the steep increases.

One resident, **Roel Hurkens**, expressed frustration about the rising costs, noting that his total utility bill in 2024 was around **$770**. He anticipates that this bill will increase to **$960** in 2025 and expects it to exceed **$1,120** in 2026, excluding other potential rate hikes related to consumption and garbage services.

Hurkens argues that the council appears to be using these utility rate increases as a means to generate additional revenue without facing the political challenge of raising property taxes. He describes the situation as “ridiculous” and emphasizes that the financial impact is anything but net-zero for the residents.

As Saanich prepares for these changes, community members are encouraged to engage in upcoming discussions regarding utility rates and the council’s financial strategies. The dramatic shifts in utility billing reflect broader trends in municipal revenue generation and the ongoing challenges faced by local governments in balancing budgets while serving their communities effectively.