CALGARY (Rajeev Sharma): Calgary residents and businesses could face steep water bill increases as the city confronts a projected $6.5-billion long-term water infrastructure need. City officials are proposing $342 million over four years to tackle leaking pipes and reduce water losses, after approximately 23% of treated water was lost through leaks in 2025. Annual losses have reportedly remained between 20% and 24% since 2019.
Mayor Jeromy Farkas and supportive councillors have pointed to water rates that failed to keep pace with population growth and inflation over the past decade, contributing to underfunding and deferred maintenance. But with households and businesses now facing higher costs, the public deserves clear answers about why the problem persisted and how quickly it will be fixed.
Under the proposed rate projections, a typical household using 19 cubic metres of water monthly could see its bill rise from $119.21 in 2026 to $206.94 by 2030, a nearly 74% increase. Businesses could face increases of approximately 86% to 95%, with a medium-sized business using 400 cubic metres monthly potentially paying $3,093.19 by 2030, compared with $1,661.33 in 2026.
The city’s target is to reduce annual water losses to 15% by 2030. However, higher bills must come with measurable results, not simply promises. Council should publish quarterly public reports detailing spending, repairs completed, water-loss reductions and progress toward its targets, supported by independent verification. If deadlines are missed, officials should explain why and disclose their corrective plan.
Calgarians should not be asked to pay substantially more without being shown what their money delivers. The proposed budget and rate increases remain subject to council decisions.
