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Q: When are the meters going to be installed? And when will they start recording our consumption?
A: Actually meters were installed in 2006 when the system was built and have been recording water consumption since that time; although that data has not been used for billing in the past we have used it to help set a metered rate.
Q: Can I get access to my water consumption records?
A: Yes, users who have used more than 182 cubic meters per year (an average of 500 L / day) in 2011 or on average since the system started will be sent a letter informing them of their historical consumption and providing an estimate of what their bill will be if they don’t change their consumption levels. Low volume users who don’t have a history of using over 182 cubic meter per year can request that data by emailing
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Q: When will we get our fist metered bill and what time period will it cover?
A: We will conduct the first meter read (for billing purposes) on April 1, 2013. Your first bill will come after we read the meters one year later. However, for the first year we will be checking the meters quarterly and informing users who are on track to be billed the metered rate.
Q: Do I have to worry about my consumption if MIMC is doing quarterly readings?
A: Your water consumption is your responsibility. MIMC will do it’s best to inform users if we suspect they have a leak; however, it is up to the user to ensure that they conserve water. We suggest that you read your meter weekly, come to the meeting on March 21 to find out how.
Q: What happens if I have a leak? Will I be charged?
A: You will be charged for leaks that happen our your side of the meter if they push your usage above the yearly water allowance, so check your meter regularly and come to our information meetings to learn about leak detection & prevention.
Q: What is the yearly water allowance and how does the fee structure work?
A: The SQCRD is still in the process of determining the final fee structure, this work will be completed between April and June 2013; however, the following ranges should give you an idea of what the structure will look like:
Parcel Tax: approximately $234/parcel/year. This increased parcel tax is levied against all of the lots within the water service area and goes to pay for fixed costs, capital costs, and contributions to reserves.
Basic Water Fee: $200 - $225, this reduced user fee will entitle you to a yearly water allowance of between 146 m3/year and 182 m3/year (400-500L/day average).
Metered Rate: $1.10 to $1.25 per m3/year (m3 = 1000L) for water consumed above and beyond the yearly water allowance.
Q: Will my total water fees/taxes decrease or increase following this change?
A: Your fee depends on your water consumption. All residential users have the capability to conserve their water so that they are not charged the metered rate at all. Those who conserve water below the threshold should see their total fees/taxes remain fairly stable in between 2013 and 2014. High consumption users will see increases consistent with their utilization. We assume that water consumption will decrease 30% in the first year and if we are wrong in that assumption we will have to adjust the rate accordingly in 2014.
If you have more questions please attend our information meeting on Thursday March 21 at 7:30 PM at the Sandspit Community Hall or email
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