Beginning with the June 30 water billing cycle, sewer charges for properties in the Town of Pictou will now appear on water bills for the first time. Previously, sewer charges were included on annual property tax bills as a flat per-household rate. The Town is moving to a usage based system that more fairly reflects the amount of wastewater entering the sewer system. Under the new structure, properties that use more water and therefore place greater demand on the sewer system will pay more, while lower-use properties will pay less. For most residents, the reduction in sewer charges previously collected through the tax bill is expected to be approximately equal to the new sewer charges appearing on water bills over the course of the year. Residents will notice that the addition of sewer charges will increase water bills by approximately 60%.

The new sewer rates are: Sewer Operating Charge: $1.82 per cubic metre (m³) of water usage Sewer Capital Charge: Based on water meter size. This change helps create a more equitable and sustainable approach to funding sewer operations and future infrastructure investments. Residents with questions about the new billing structure are encouraged to contact the Town Office at 902-485-4372 or visit 40 Water Street.

Costs:

Meter Size         Quarterly

5/8"                   $32.19

3/4"                   $48.29

1"                      $80.49

1.5"                   $160.97

2"                      $257.56

3"                      $515.12

6"                      $1609.74