By KEVIN BERGER, Local Journalism Initiative
Corman Park councillors passed all three readings during their February 24 meeting on the Water Utility Bylaw, which is introducing a 5% increase to the water rates charged to five developments within the RM.
Currently, the RM acts as a water utility for three residential developments (Casa Rio, Grasswood and Riverside Estates) and two commercial developments (the Corman Industrial Park and Battleford Trail). These rates have remained the same since 2022.
According to Director of Infrastructure and Planning Hayder Lateef, all water consumed at these sites comes from the City of Saskatoon water treatment plant. SaskWater provides water to Casa Rio, Grasswood, the Industrial Park and Battleford Trail, while Riverside Estates receives water from the Dundurn Rural Water Utility.
Lateef told council that SaskWater has given notice of rate increases equalling 4.25% in 2026 and 4.28% in 2027. Likewise, the Dundurn Rural Water Utility is increasing its water rates by 2.28% in 2026.
To ensure the water utility covers its own costs while leaving some money aside for capital upgrades, the RM is proposing that the water rates for Casa Rio and Casa Rio East increase from $6.89 per cubic meter to $7.23 in 2026 and $7.59 in 2027.
Grasswood Estates will see their rates increase from $6.19 to $6.50 in 2026 and $6.83 in 2027, while Riverside Estates will go up from $7.84 per cubic meter to $8.23 in 2026 and $8.64 in 2027.
The Corman Industrial Park and Battleford Trail developments will see their rates increase from $5.74 per cubic meter to $6.03 in 2026 and $6.33 in 2027.
Incidentally, the bi-monthly administration fee of $20 will also increase to $30 in 2026.
A 30-day notice will now be sent to all RM water users informing them of the changes.